Organization brings history and art together

Since its establishment in 1999, the Sugar Land Cultural Arts Foundation has spearheaded efforts to renovate the Sugar Land Auditorium. Work on the project is wrapping up, and the organization has shifted its efforts to supporting the local arts.

The historic auditorium was built circa 1918 by the Imperial Sugar Company and remains the oldest public building in Sugar Land. It once served as a venue for concerts, graduations, live performances and church gatherings, and it has been refurbished and reopened to the public since early 2012.

"People in the community provided the funding for this undertaking," SLCAF board president Tim Stubenrouch said. "The people are what have made not only the foundation itself but this building known and important to the community. It is this group of people that [have brought] this place to life."

Through a partnership between the city of Sugar Land and Fort Bend ISD, SLCAF and community volunteers renovated and upgraded the 394-seat auditorium in two phases. Phase 3, which is expected to begin later this year, will consist of new rest rooms, the recreation of the historic pergola—or covered walkway—and other finishing touches.

Chad Muska became involved with the organization's efforts in early 2013 and became executive director of SLCAF in April. He has since worked to establish partnerships with local businesses and organizations to bring his passions for live theater and history together.

"We had quite a few grass roots

organizations come together to establish this [nonprofit] to help restore this historical auditorium," said Bridget Yeung, who serves on the SLCAF board and Sugar Land City Council. "The arts are such an important part of the community. Although it was [the SCLAF's] goal to renovate this auditorium, our mission now is to progress the arts for the whole community."

Community events

When the auditorium was built in 1918, it was a central meeting place in the community and hosted a variety of events. Now that the doors have been reopened, SLCAF has plans to put on similar events throughout the year, including speakers, parties and live theater.

Upcoming events:

• Oct. 17–The Sugar Land Auditorium will host its first "Chautauqua Talk" with special guest and former football record-holder Ken Hall.
• Jan. 18–The SLCAF's annual gala will be held at Texas Safari Ranch. The theme for the event is "SLCAF in Revue." A revue refers to multi-act theatre consisting of music, dance and sketches.

Sugar Land Auditorium

226 Lakeview Drive, Sugar Land

281-898-4518

www.slcaf.org