SUGAR LOAF, NY — The Orange County Legislature has officially approved the purchase of the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center from the Town of Chester for over $1.3 million, marking a major investment in the county’s arts, culture, and tourism sectors.
A Regional Hub for Entertainment and Community Events
The facility, located in the heart of Sugar Loaf, spans 20,000 square feet and includes a performance space with seating for approximately 900 people. County officials say the venue will be used for a wide range of events, from live performances and school graduations to community-focused programming.
County Legislature Chairman Kevin Hines emphasized the center’s potential to boost local tourism and serve the public in new ways.
“We want to bring in acts and tourism,” said Hines. “It’s going to be assigned to the parks department to run it, but obviously tourism will be involved. The county executive expressed his vision where they are going to have movies for veterans and senior citizens; they will be free of charge.”
Hines also noted that many local schools are in need of large facilities for graduations and other functions, and the performing arts center is expected to help meet that demand.
Transition and Future Programming
As part of the transition, the county will retain the current entertainment booking company through the end of its contract. The firm has been responsible for organizing events such as tribute band performances and other live shows that have become staples of the venue’s calendar.
Once the purchase is finalized, management will shift to the Orange County Parks Department, with input and collaboration from the county’s tourism office to maximize the center’s cultural and economic impact.
Community-Centered Vision
The acquisition aligns with Orange County’s broader initiative to expand recreational and cultural opportunities for residents. By taking over the Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center, the county intends to make the venue more accessible for community-oriented programming, including:
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Free movie screenings for veterans and senior citizens
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Public school graduations and ceremonies
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Live music, theater, and seasonal events
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Tourist-friendly attractions to draw visitors to Sugar Loaf
Next Steps
The final closing on the facility is expected to take up to six months, during which the county will complete legal and administrative steps to finalize the transfer of ownership.
The move has been welcomed by many in the local arts community and is seen as a strategic step toward revitalizing Sugar Loaf as a cultural destination while providing valuable services to Orange County residents.
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