Building a cultural hub.

Inspired by the energy and will of the Putney Historical Society to rebuild The Putney General Store after two fires store, a group of committed neighbors formed Next Stage Arts around a singular, shared vision: converting the deteriorating church into an accessible community resource and performance venue.

The collective goal was to transform a historic building by honoring the integrity of its architecture, updating its use while preserving and enhancing its traditional role as a gathering place in the center of the village. A feasibility study concluded that the building, with its outstanding acoustics and large hall, was physically suitable and adaptable to its intended new uses and that very few halls of this size (150-200 seats) existed in the region. Next Stage decided to immediately commence programming in the neglected space during this period of time, in effect creating a “living survey” prior to making major investments towards restorations or building upgrades.

In 2016, Next Stage completed its $1.8 million renovation project. The result is a 200-seat, state of-the-art, fully accessible performance venue, with a dance floor, green room, a commercial-grade kitchen, art gallery, and community rooms.