GRANTS PASS, OR. — A year after launching an ambitious $1 million fundraising campaign to preserve and enhance the Grants Pass High School Performing Arts Center (PAC), Grants Pass School District 7 is celebrating a major milestone. Thanks to widespread community support, including generous grants, donations, and proceeds from the PAC’s 25th anniversary celebration, more than $225,000 has been raised to date.
The fundraising effort has already fueled significant improvements to the beloved facility, which serves as a central hub for arts, culture, and community events in Grants Pass. District officials report that the upgrades made possible by these funds have improved the PAC’s safety, accessibility, and technical capabilities.
Among the completed upgrades are new carpet installation throughout the center, fresh exterior painting, and replacement of the main entrance doors to improve both security and accessibility. Interior walls have been repaired and repainted, and the theater’s handrails have been powder-coated and painted for added durability and aesthetic appeal. One of the most significant projects, a full roof replacement, is scheduled to take place in the summer of 2025.
In addition to these improvements, the district was able to address long-standing roof leaks as an interim measure until the new roof is installed. New signage and clearly marked parking lots have improved wayfinding for guests. The PAC has also seen substantial upgrades to its technical capabilities, including the installation of a lightboard with touchscreen monitors, a new house speaker system, a wireless intercom system, a digital wireless microphone system, and follow spots for stage lighting. A safety inspection and an additional DMX network have further enhanced the facility’s operations.
Wayd Drake, Supervisor of the PAC, praised the community for its continued support. He emphasized that every improvement ensures the PAC remains a premier venue for performances and community events well into the future. “This campaign has shown the incredible support our community has for the arts,” Drake said. “Every improvement we make ensures that the PAC continues to serve as a premier venue for performances and community gatherings for years to come.”
However, school officials say the work is far from over. Additional funding is still needed to complete a list of critical projects that will modernize the facility and ensure its accessibility for all. Among the remaining needs are new curtains and rigging for the stage, additional fly lines to support more complex productions, and an assistive listening system to improve accessibility for audience members with hearing impairments.
Plans also include creating an ADA-compliant entrance and improved wheelchair and companion seating. Repaving the parking lot is necessary for safe and easy access to the center, and updated projectors, a video monitoring system, a live stream switcher, and a camera are needed to meet current production standards. An enclosed box office would improve guest services, and additional storage space is needed to accommodate the growing needs of productions and events.
Kate Dwyer, Executive Director of the Four Way Community Foundation, highlighted the broader importance of the PAC to the local community. “The impact of the PAC goes beyond a building; it is a cultural and artistic hub for our students and our community,” Dwyer said. “We encourage everyone to continue supporting this important effort so we can complete these necessary improvements.”
The district and the Four Way Community Foundation are encouraging ongoing donations to help reach the campaign’s goal. An endowment fund has also been established to ensure long-term support for the PAC, ensuring it remains a centerpiece for arts and culture in Grants Pass for generations to come.
More information on how to contribute can be found on the Grants Pass School District 7 website.
