The Pyrle marquee was lit as the sun began its descent. Large glass doors with polished brass handles, cool against the February air, opened into a lobby already warm with energy. Light washed over exposed brick and original Triad Stage seating, a quiet reminder of the building’s past. Old met new in a space reborn.
By the time the program began, The Pyrle was filled with neighbors, artists, community leaders, and longtime supporters. Hugs and handshakes gave way to conversation. The atmosphere was both celebratory and purposeful. It was here that The ACGG’s ArtsFund program launched its 2026 campaign, already 49 percent of the way toward its $550,000 goal.
As emcee Jeffery Carlson, Director of The Choral Arts Collective, reminded the room, “Art is not extra. It is essential.”
Creativity carried the evening. The Greensboro Opera performed selections from The Pirates of Penzance. A moving video featured Artist Support Grantees and local arts organizations strengthened through ArtsFund, underscored by original music from Artist Support Grantees Elena Martín and Jose Melitón. The night concluded with Artist Support Grantee Daniel Quisol and his wife, Paulina, performing in a space designed for sound to soar.
Throughout the evening, artists of every discipline engaged supporters and community leaders in conversation about their work and the role ArtsFund plays in sustaining it. New introductions were made and future collaborations began to take shape.
The focus extended beyond a single project to an interconnected ecosystem of large and small organizations, emerging and established artists, festivals, educators, and public art shaping daily life across Guilford County.
Since 1960, The ACGG has built a rich legacy of advocates and investors who understand that the arts are essential to Greater Greensboro’s vitality. As our creative sector evolves, a new generation of leaders is stepping forward to help shape the city’s future through the arts. Today, as the largest public and private alliance dedicated to sustaining our local arts economy, we remain a trusted partner in cultivating a vibrant community where art thrives.
ArtsFund 2026 Co-Chairs Clifford and Martha Thompson spoke passionately about the arts as public access, public beauty, and a powerful economic driver. The arts are why people and businesses choose a community.
By the end of the evening, ArtsFund had raised $32,000 more, strengthening that early momentum. Together, we continue this work.
We invite you to join us in shaping our region’s future through the arts. ArtsFund sustains our entire creative ecosystem throughout the year. Please consider making your ArtsFund gift today. Conveniently donate here. With your support, creativity will continue to shape Greensboro for generations to come.
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Photo credit: Lynn Donovan Photography