WCR Center for the Arts has been awarded The Neag Foundation grant of $10,425 to support their 24-25 Musical Performance Program. The grant is meant to substantially assist six future programs. The WCR will use the grant for its 2024-2025 Performing Arts Season, specifically the following six performances:
Winter Arts Camp: November 25th and 26th from 10am-1pm. WCR Center partnered with Barrio Allegra, Olivet Boys and Girls Club, Reading Recreation, and Children and Youth Services hosted this children’s arts camp.
Bonnie Raitt Birthday Celebration: In October 2024, WCR Center hosted a live musical performance of songs by Bonnie Raitt performed by Maria Damore, Ken Bagenstose, and Suzie Ernesto. A small reception (Birthday Celebration style) along with a video recording of the event celebrated Bonnie Raitt’s 75th year around the sun!
Guitar-A-Rama: Saturday, November 23, 2024, WCR hosted performances by the Quarantined Quartet from NYC and the Gourmet Gypsy Jazz Band (Dave Kline, Josh Taylor, Chris Heslop, Ken Gehret, Trey LaRue). A workshop for all instruments and a jam session also added to the event.
WCR 20th Anniversary Celebration with the Philadelphia Orchestra (PO), Music From “Inside Out” Movie and presentation of PO Documentary: To celebrate the 20th Season of both the WCR Center for the Arts and the Philadelphia Orchestra (PO) in 2025, a Quintet of PO members will perform followed by a Q&A about the documentary and performance. The WCR Center will also host a meet-and-greet reception after the event. Additionally, 13 members of the Youth Chamber Orchestra will play side-by-side with PO members.
Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest 2025: WCR will host a performance for the Annual Berks Jazz Fest in April 2025, featuring David Cullen and Samite (Ugandan folk musician). Hot Club with Special Guest: A night of sizzling hot jazz with our local musical treasure- Hot Club! This performance will include a very special guest.
Located at 140 N. 5th Street in Reading’s historic Callowhill District, the WCR Center for the Arts has transformed its 19th-century building into a vibrant community hub. The WCR now serves as a unique performance and exhibition venue, fostering artistic exploration and community engagement.
The WCR’s initiatives, including arts education for low to moderate-income families and partnerships with local nonprofits, have created valuable opportunities for the Greater Reading community. The beautiful performance hall is known for its exceptional acoustics, which draws artists and audiences from around the world, contributing to Reading’s cultural and economic revitalization.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive this significant funding for our 20th Anniversary Season. The support from The Neag Foundation allows us to continue to present quality programs and events for Reading in our historic building.”, said Jayme Rhoads, WCR President, Board of Directors.
The Neag Foundation serves as a force for positive change in the arts and making positive differences in the world. The WCR Center’s dedication to a positive arts experience in our community has made it a deserving recipient of this award.
