Mayor Elect Dianne Herrin
It may be hard to believe that Uptown! Knauer and Performing Arts Center has only been a part of the borough for a year. They had celebrated their grand opening last New Year’s Eve in a “Celebration of the Century” gala, and now this year, they will be hosting a “Diamonds and Denim” New Years Eve Gala. The theme draws parallels to the hard work that has resulted in dazzling productions.
“Uptown! has quickly become a cornerstone of our community. Not only have they brought quality theatre, dance, and adult cultural opportunities to our entire region, but it is also serving our local community. I’m particularly impressed with Uptown’s educational partnerships with groups like the St. Agnes School, the West Chester Area School District, and the local YMCA — partnerships that build skills and confidence in our youth through creative self-expression…Uptown! has put West Chester on the map as a burgeoning culture center and this enriches us all” — Mayor Elect, Dianne Herrin
Uptown! has a theater education department called West Chester Studio for the Performing Arts, which teaches and encourages children and adults to sing, act, write plays, and perform improvisation. Uptown has been awarded grants and scholarships this past year to fund shows through this department, such as “Alice in Wonderland” and 
their Holiday Cheer concerts.
One of the most notable highlights from this year is Uptown’s partnership with the Resident Theatre Company, which brings the talent of Broadway to the borough through plays like “Next to Normal,” their Jazz Cocktail Hours, and their Better than Bacon Improv shows, as well as their Uptown! Speaker Series, which invites serious and engaging discussions on topics ranging from travel to a personal battle with an opioid addiction.
Help Uptown! celebrate its accomplishments by attending the New Year’s Gala this Deccember 31st at 7:30pm. Tickets are available online.
