From a storied cultural heritage to Grammy-winning nights and rising young performers, The Center invites the community to help nurture the next generation of artists.
On any show night, downtown Grass Valley hums with energy. Local restaurants fill early. People linger over a glass of wine before the show. There’s a little buzz in the air.
At the heart of it all is The Center for the Arts, the place where Nevada County’s creativity comes alive.
Nevada County has long been a home for artistic expression. Its earliest cultural traditions come from the Nisenan people, whose stories, songs, and crafts laid the foundation for creativity in this region. In the 1960s, an arts resurgence drew musicians like Utah Phillips and writers like Gary Snyder, shaping a vibrant creative ecosystem that continues to influence the county today.
That lineage continues in the artists who call Nevada County home today. Musicians across genres— from rock artists like Jon Sortland, Dan Elkan, Hunter Bergan, and Rich Good to folk voices such as Joanna Newsom, Noah Georgeson, Alela Diane, and the Americana duo Two Runner—carry forward the county’s creative spirit. Their work reflects a living artistic heritage, and The Center for the Arts is the place that celebrates and elevates it.
Where World-Class Artists Meet a Small-Town Heart
Nevada County’s creative energy is why world-class musicians keep returning to The Center. In just the past five years, audiences have seen more than 70 Grammy winners and nominees perform here—a remarkable feat for a small venue.
Names like Iron & Wine, Taj Mahal, Lyle Lovett, the Steeldrivers, and Robert Cray have lit up the stage. So have innovative artists like Ani DiFranco, Jeff Tweedy, Time for Three, and Cedric Burnside. Grammy nominees The War & Treaty have gone from performing with Zach Bryan on massive stages to connecting with audiences in the Center’s intimate 500-seat theater.
“Our audiences don’t need to travel to cities to experience Grammy-winning performances—they happen right here, in their own backyard,” says Jaimie des Tombe, Programs Manager.
This rare blend of intimacy and world-class artistry makes The Center not just a venue, but a cultural cornerstone.
A Gallery That Brings the World—and the Community—In
Music is only part of the story. Step into the Granucci Gallery, and you’ll discover a rotating showcase of creativity—from internationally exhibited work to deeply personal local collections.
Most recently, award-winning travel photographer Eric Lindberg drew over 100 people to his opening night, filling the gallery with longtime arts supporters, visiting tourists, and curious first-time attendees.
“The gallery is often where artistic sparks are lit. For many young artists, it’s the first time they see work displayed professionally—planting the seed that their art could one day hang here too,” says Denise, youth art teacher and exhibiting artist.
Youth Arts at the Center: Cultivating Confidence, Creativity, and Community
Walk through The Center on a weekday afternoon, and you’ll feel a different kind of electricity: kids rehearsing lines for Annie, dancers warming up in the studio, or aerial students climbing silks with fearless determination.
Each year, 2,000–2,500 local youth participate in arts education programs—from dance and aerial arts to camps and workshops, including Main Stage Playmakers, where 70+ young performers train, rehearse, and perform under professional direction.
“The Center offers more than a stage. It offers a space to grow, connect, and shine,” says Heather, local parent.
One young artist, Hunter, discovered her confidence at The Center after struggling with severe anxiety during the COVID lockdown.
“Everything changed when I joined my first theatre camp. It helped me find what I love to do, showed me what I’m capable of, and gave me the confidence to pursue it,” Hunter recalls.
Since then, she’s starred as Mrs. Wormwood in Matilda Jr. and Puss in Boots in Shrek Jr., now envisioning a professional future in musical theatre—all thanks to the Center’s welcoming, creative environment.
“Through taking classes at The Center, I found who I am,” Hunter says.
The Center awarded over 100 scholarships in 2025, ensuring no child is turned away due to finances. Some of these young performers may return as professional artists; all of them carry the confidence, creativity, and community they discover here into the rest of their lives.
Fueling the Heart of Downtown Grass Valley
The Center for the Arts doesn’t just enrich lives—it drives real economic vitality. In 2024, roughly 40% of ticket buyers came from outside Nevada County, bringing visitors who explore downtown before and after performances.
Restaurants, shops, and hotels feel the impact: tables are full, gallery doors swing open, and lodging sees increased occupancy on nights that might otherwise be quiet. Local partners such as Holbrooke Hotel, Cirino’s, Golden Gate Saloon, and Grass Valley Courtyard Suites note that show nights create energy and commerce that sustains businesses year-round.
“Show nights keep downtown alive. The economic impact is real,” says Jon Blinder, Board President.
Overall, The Center contributes nearly $5 million annually to the local economy. Supporting the Center isn’t just about preserving the arts—it’s about keeping downtown vibrant, bustling, and connected. Every ticket sold, every donation made, and every class attended ripples outward, strengthening the creative and economic life of the community.
A Community That Makes It All Possible
Like arts organizations nationwide, The Center faces rising costs for bringing artists to the stage and keeping programs accessible. Artist fees, production expenses, and operational costs have grown, even as attendance habits fluctuate.
“Ticket sales alone cannot keep the lights on. Donations and memberships are what sustain the organization and allow us to serve the community,” says Jon Blinder.
That’s why community support matters now more than ever. Early donors have pledged a $20,000 Holiday Match, doubling gifts made during the year-end season. Every contribution expands opportunities for youth, supports local artists, and ensures world-class performances continue to thrive locally.
“Music here is how we stay connected to each other, to our past, and to our future,” says Huck Ingram, Board Member.
A Legacy Worth Protecting — Especially Now
For decades, Nevada County has punched far above its weight as an arts community. That’s not an accident. It’s the result of generations showing up—attending shows, enrolling kids in classes, volunteering, donating, and believing that a small-town venue could be a home for big ideas.
“This community made The Center possible — and together, we can ensure it continues for the next generation.” Jon Blinder, Board President.
Nevada County’s artistic legacy is rare—and worth protecting.