The Manhattan Arts Center (MAC) stands as a vital cultural hub in Manhattan, Kansas, committed to the mission of providing "Arts for All." Established as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the MAC serves the local and regional community by offering a multi-disciplinary approach to creativity, encompassing live theatre, contemporary art exhibitions, diverse educational workshops, and recurring music series. Located at 1520 Poyntz Avenue, the facility provides a permanent home for artistic expression, acting as both a venue for professional-grade performances and an incubator for aspiring local artists.

The Cultural Impact of the Manhattan Arts Center

Since its formal establishment in its current location in the early 1990s, the Manhattan Arts Center has functioned as more than just a venue; it is a community-driven institution. The center’s operation relies heavily on a dedicated network of volunteers, donors, and a professional staff currently led by Executive Director Kendra Kuhlman. By facilitating access to the arts for individuals ranging from infants to seniors, the MAC ensures that the cultural fabric of Manhattan, Kansas, remains vibrant and inclusive.

The organization’s guiding principles focus on growth, innovation, and strategic relationship-building. It acts as a conduit for genuine connection through storytelling, whether that is achieved on a stage, through a kiln in the clay studio, or on the walls of a gallery. This commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures that every individual, regardless of their background, finds a place where their creativity is valued.

Mainstage Theatre and the 2026 Season

The Mainstage theatre at the MAC is renowned for producing high-quality community theatre that features a blend of local and regional talent. The theatre experience here is designed to be intimate yet impactful, bringing powerful stories to life through a mix of beloved classics and bold new works.

Upcoming Productions and Schedules

For those planning to attend upcoming performances, the MAC has announced a compelling lineup for the 2026 season. These productions represent the diversity of themes the center aims to explore:

  1. Radium Girls (April 2026): Directed by Addie Schneider and written by D.W. Gregory, this gripping drama is inspired by the true events of factory workers in the 1920s who fought for justice after being exposed to radium. The play is scheduled for April 10–12 and April 17–19, 2026. Friday and Saturday performances typically begin at 7:30 pm, with Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm.
  2. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (May 2026): Bringing the charm of the Peanuts gang to the stage, this musical explores life through the eyes of Charlie Brown and his friends. It is scheduled for May 15–17, 2026.
  3. Urinetown (June 2026): A satirical musical that skewers politics and corporate greed, scheduled for June 5–7 and June 12–14, 2026.

These performances serve a dual purpose: they provide a platform for local actors to hone their craft and offer the community affordable access to professional-level theatre. The production management, overseen by Penny Cullers, ensures that the technical aspects—from set design to lighting—meet the high standards the audience has come to expect.

Visual Arts and Gallery Exhibitions

The Manhattan Arts Center features year-round art galleries that showcase contemporary works from local and regional artists. These exhibitions are designed to engage audiences through multi-disciplinary displays that question, inspire, and reflect the current cultural climate.

The facility houses two distinct gallery spaces that are open to the public during standard operating hours (Monday to Friday, noon to 5:30 pm). These spaces rotate their displays frequently, ensuring that there is always something new for visitors to experience. The galleries don’t just display art; they foster a dialogue between the creator and the viewer, often hosting opening receptions where the community can meet the artists and discuss their techniques and inspirations.

Comprehensive Arts Education for All Ages

Education is a cornerstone of the MAC’s operations. The education program, led by Susanne Glymour, is built on the belief that arts education enhances the lives of everyone involved. The curriculum is broad, covering both visual and performing arts.

Visual Arts Workshops

The visual arts program includes traditional media such as painting and drawing, but it also branches out into specialized crafts.

  • Sewing and Jewelry Making: These classes focus on practical skills combined with aesthetic design, allowing students to create wearable art.
  • Visual Art Fundamentals: For younger students, these classes focus on the basic elements of art—line, color, shape, and texture—to build a foundation for future creative endeavors.

Acting and Performance Classes

The MAC provides acting classes that cater to different skill levels. For youth, these programs often culminate in a performance, allowing them to apply what they’ve learned about stage presence, character development, and vocal projection in a real-world setting. Adult acting workshops focus more on the nuances of performance, improvisation, and script analysis.

Summer Camps

During the summer months, the MAC becomes a hive of activity for children through its robust summer camp program. these camps are immersive experiences where kids can spend a week focusing on a specific discipline, such as musical theatre or clay work, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community among participants.

The Clay Studio: A Hub for Ceramic Excellence

One of the most unique features of the Manhattan Arts Center is its dedicated Clay Studio. Managed by Justice Catron, this space is one of the few in the region that provides comprehensive ceramics facilities for both beginners and experienced potters.

The Clay Studio offers:

  • Wheel Throwing and Handbuilding Classes: Students learn the technical aspects of working with clay, from centering on the wheel to glazing and firing.
  • Open Studio Hours: For those who have reached a certain level of proficiency, the studio offers open hours where artists can work on their individual projects using the center’s kilns and equipment.
  • Community Clay Events: These are often short-term workshops where people can try their hand at pottery without a long-term commitment, making the medium accessible to the curious public.

Live Music Series and Acoustic Performances

Beyond theatre and visual arts, the MAC is a significant venue for live music. The center hosts several recurring series that cater to diverse musical tastes:

BirdHouse Acoustic Music Series

The BirdHouse series focuses on folk, Americana, and acoustic performances. It provides a listening-room environment where the audience can appreciate the intricacies of songwriting and instrumental skill in an intimate setting.

Swing City Jazz Series

For fans of jazz, this series brings regional jazz ensembles and soloists to the MAC. It celebrates the rich history of the genre while providing a platform for modern interpretations of jazz standards.

Classical and Contemporary Performances

The MAC also hosts classical recitals and contemporary music events, often collaborating with local musicians and faculty from regional universities to bring high-caliber talent to the Poyntz Avenue stage.

The History of the Manhattan Arts Center

The MAC as it exists today is the result of a long history of community collaboration. Understanding its origins provides context for its current success.

Origins in the 1950s

The roots of the center trace back to the Manhattan Civic Theatre (MCT), which started as a play-reading club in the 1950s. The MCT was formally incorporated in 1972 and operated as a nomadic troupe for many years, performing in various venues across the city without a permanent home.

The Manhattan Arts Council

Parallel to the growth of the theatre group was the development of the Manhattan Arts Council, which grew out of the cultural affairs committee of the Chamber of Commerce in 1972. The Council was instrumental in promoting the arts through school programs, radio and TV broadcasts, and an exhibition series.

The Merger and 1520 Poyntz Ave

In 1991, the Manhattan Civic Theatre and the Manhattan Arts Council joined forces. By 1993, the Manhattan Arts Center was established as a unified entity with the goal of finding a permanent facility. With the help of a grant from the City of Manhattan, the team purchased the building at 1520 Poyntz Avenue. Following an extensive volunteer-led renovation, the building opened to the public in 1994.

In the early 2000s, further improvements were made to the exterior and the Clarenburg Foyer, thanks to the Kansas Department of Commerce’s community service tax credit program. Today, the facility includes a performance hall, two galleries, a set design shop, dressing rooms, and professional offices.

How to Get Involved with the MAC

As a non-profit organization, the Manhattan Arts Center thrives on community involvement. There are several ways for individuals to support and participate in the center’s mission.

Volunteering

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the MAC. Opportunities range from:

  • Front of House: Serving as ushers, ticket takers, and concessions staff during performances.
  • Backstage: Assisting with set construction, costume design, lighting, and stage management.
  • Gallery and Office Support: Helping with exhibition installations or administrative tasks.

Membership and Donations

The MAC is funded through a combination of city support, ticket sales, class fees, and private donations. Becoming a "MAC Member" provides individuals with benefits such as early access to tickets and discounts on classes, while ensuring the organization has the financial stability to continue its "Arts for All" programming.

Sponsorships

Local businesses can sponsor specific productions or gallery exhibitions. This provides the business with visibility in the community while directly supporting the local arts economy.

Facility and Contact Information

For those planning a visit or seeking to register for programs, the following details are essential:

  • Location: 1520 Poyntz Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502.
  • Operating Hours: Monday through Friday, 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM. The facility also opens 30 minutes before any scheduled performance.
  • Phone: (785) 537-4420.
  • Digital Presence: The official website serves as the primary hub for class registrations, ticket purchases, and the most up-to-date event calendar.

The center is a member of "aha! Manhattan," the Arts and Humanities Association of Manhattan, further cementing its role in the broader regional cultural landscape.

Summary

The Manhattan Arts Center is the cornerstone of the arts in Manhattan, Kansas. By integrating theatre, visual arts, education, and music under one roof at 1520 Poyntz Avenue, it provides a comprehensive cultural experience for the region. Whether through the gripping drama of a Mainstage production like Radium Girls, the tactile creativity of the Clay Studio, or the educational workshops that nurture the next generation of artists, the MAC remains true to its mission of making the arts accessible to everyone. As it moves toward its 2026 season under the leadership of Kendra Kuhlman, the MAC continues to evolve, ensuring that the legacy of community-driven art remains a permanent fixture of Kansas life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of classes does the Manhattan Arts Center offer?

The MAC offers a wide variety of classes for all ages, including visual arts (painting, sewing, jewelry making), performance arts (acting, musical theatre), and specialized ceramics training in the Clay Studio. Summer camps are also available for youth.

Where is the Manhattan Arts Center located?

The center is located at 1520 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502.

Is the Manhattan Arts Center a professional theatre?

The MAC is a community theatre that features local and regional talent. While the actors and many staff members are community participants, the quality of production—from directing to technical design—is held to a high professional standard.

How can I buy tickets for MAC performances?

Tickets can be purchased directly through the official Manhattan Arts Center website or by visiting the box office during their standard operating hours (Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM).

Are the art galleries at the MAC free to the public?

Yes, the galleries at the MAC are generally open to the public during business hours, allowing visitors to view contemporary art exhibitions free of charge, though donations are always appreciated to support the non-profit mission.

Who is the current Executive Director of the MAC?

As of 2023, the Executive Director of the Manhattan Arts Center is Kendra Kuhlman.