The Clayton Center for the Arts (CCA) is pleased to announce it has been selected as a 2026 grant recipient by the East Tennessee Foundation’s (ETF) Arts Fund for East Tennessee. This critical funding will allow the CCA to continue its “Share Our Stages” initiative, a community-focused program designed to eliminate financial barriers for regional performing arts organizations.
Over the past two years, the “Share Our Stages” initiative has successfully expanded community access to its professional theater spaces. Past participating groups include the Foothills Community Players, Broadway Center for the Arts, Momentum Dance Labs, Next Rung Production, First Take Co., and 7-Day Film Shoot Out.
Thanks to the renewed support from the East Tennessee Foundation, the CCA will waive stage rental fees for at least five regional performing arts groups during the upcoming cycle. Selected organizations will receive access to either the Haslam Family Flexible Theater or the Harold and Jean Lambert Recital Hall for a full production run and rehearsal period. Additionally, the CCA will provide comprehensive box office services and marketing support.
The “Share Our Stages” program is open to regional, not-for-profit performing arts groups, including both adult and youth organizations. While all regional companies are welcome to apply, preference will be given to organizations based in Blount County. Local performing arts groups interested in applying for the program or learning more about the guidelines are encouraged to contact Artistic Programming Manager Christina Scott Sayer via email at [email protected]