In what might be the most ambitious and largest project to date, the Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce is excited to launch a capital campaign to assist in funding for an outdoor amphitheater, which serves as an additional phase of Matthews Park that has yet to be completed. The Greenbrier Area Arts Council, The Piccolo-Zoppe Circus, and Herschel Hall are also leading the charge together in capital campaign efforts by hosting a “Summer Series” of events in Matthews Park, The Ola Hawks Business and Community Center, and Herschel Hall. Proceeds will directly benefit the capital campaign. The organizations all hope to raise $100,000 by the end of 2024. “We are excited to help host the “Summer Series” in Matthews Park with our bleachers from the circus, hopefully this will give the community a sense of the major opportunities a permanent amphitheater could provide” shares Tosca Zoppe.
Why an amphitheater?
At the project’s core, an amphitheater in Matthews Park will serve as a much needed addition to what is already the heart of the community. This structure will add a new dimension to the park and be a boost economically and culturally for our area. Local businesses will benefit from programming. In addition, it will bring citizens of all ages together for entertainment, recreation, and interaction. “While programming and events will definitely boost tourism to Greenbrier, which benefits our business owners directly, we are also looking at the bigger picture by leading the campaign and we want to give our community a space to celebrate the arts and so much more” shares Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce President, Ashton Pruitt.
Imagine a beautifully designed space to host outdoor band and choir concerts, community theater to thrive, enjoy live performances, instruction, speakers, and demonstrations, graduations, receptions, award ceremonies, picnics, movies, weddings, team building events, fundraisers, conferences, and serve as an outdoor classroom. “Having a permanent stage will help organizations in the long run host events in the park. This is such a huge expense and will alleviate the burden and expense of renting one. This will be a huge benefit to our park and community” adds Greenbrier City Event Director, Shellie O’Quinn.
The first of many events will be held May 31st at Roundabout Pools. Businesses can team up to “Aim for the Amp” and compete in a single elimination baggo tournament. Lunch will be provided by Sorrels Robinson Team with NextHome Local Realty Group. A traveling trophy, cash prizes, and bragging rights will be up for grabs. For more details on how to register your team check that out here: https://form.jotform.com/greenbrierchamber/baggoregistration
More information will be announced soon about the exciting “Summer Series” event calendar and how to donate directly to the campaign.