Looking forward

Our Vision

The next chapter of the Staples Motley Area Arts Council is about ambition and access at the same time. We want to bring even higher caliber artists to our stage, commission new work that speaks to life in greater Minnesota, and open more doors for the people who call this place home.

A thriving arts council is never the work of a few. It belongs to the students who get their first taste of live theatre, the neighbors who volunteer at the door, the businesses that underwrite a season, and the audiences who keep showing up. We want all of them at the table.

What we're working toward

Raising the arts — and bringing the whole community with us.

  • Elevate the season

    Invest in larger touring productions, ballet, and chamber programs that rival what audiences travel hours to see.

  • Invite every neighbor in

    Expand free and family-friendly programming so cost is never the reason someone misses a performance.

  • Grow with our young people

    Deepen Children's Theater and classroom visits so every Staples-Motley student meets working artists.

  • Build the next generation of volunteers

    Welcome new board members, ushers, and committee voices — the glue that has always held this council together.

Strategic Plan

Goals for the seasons ahead.

These eight actions guide our board, volunteers, and partners as we grow the arts across the Staples-Motley area and beyond.

  1. 1

    Pursue Three Performances Each Year

    CLC update · Wadena Concert Series Meeting

  2. 2

    Folk School

    Hands-on workshops and heritage craft instruction for all ages.

  3. 3

    Arts Gallery Show — Railroad Days

    A juried exhibition tied to Staples' historic summer celebration.

  4. 4

    Community Calendar / Marketing

    One clear place to find every arts event in the region.

  5. 5

    Movie Offerings

    Classic and independent film screenings for the whole community.

  6. 6

    Discussion, Learning and Teaching Topics

    Talks, panels, and classes that deepen the audience experience.

  7. 7

    Collaboration with Existing Libraries

    Partnering with local libraries to bring art and literature together.

  8. 8

    Community Bus Trips — Collaboration with CLC

    Shared transportation so more neighbors can attend performances together.