Based at 605 Main St. in Middletown, CT, the organization benefits from a location in the central business district which it helps to energize. TBT offers music, art, literature, poetry and dance programs, contests, classes, online events, open microphone sessions and many partnership presentations. We also present projects curated from outside the organization, and we rent space for rehearsals and events. This plan has been written to offer an overview of the organization and show our preparation for future expanded activity.
The Buttonwood Tree PAC’s Goals:
- Provide support to local artists, amateurs, students and others to explore their capacity for self-expression and communication by offering them a facility, institutional support, funding, workshops, performance/exhibit opportunities and other artistic support.
- To provide artistic, educational, and other cultural experiences and programs that are accessible, participatory, and unique, enriching and positive for audiences in the North End of Middletown, Central Connecticut and beyond.
- To serve residents of the North End of Middletown by offering cultural, educational, and artistic programs, positive role models and by creating a community/cultural drop-in center.
- To serve students by offering real-world work experience through internships and work-study opportunities, performance opportunities, and space for scholastic presentations.
- To serve as an incubator of creativity and a launching pad for artistic careers.
- To stimulate and enhance the economy of Middletown.
- To increase tourism to Middletown.
- To create “real-world” working experiences and jobs for local residents and artists.
- To create an environment that is fully inclusive and accessible
The Buttonwood Tree operates under the 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization of The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center, Inc. From its storied opening on Rapallo Avenue in the North End of Middletown, in 1989, The Buttonwood Tree has been a grassroots, avant garde center for all ages, all comers, artists and audiences. Recognized internationally, nationally, and locally as a music venue, it has also offered programs led by outstanding artists in contemporary theater, literature, art, poetry and dance—from belly to hip hop—as well as opening its doors to community the community.
The Buttonwood Tree’s musical events range from providing space to the local musician who has never performed in public, to world-class artists who have played at The White House, Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, in stadiums around the world, and more.
Always high quality, always warm & friendly, casual and entertaining. We serve light snacks and beverages of all sorts and there’s FREE, ample parking behind our neighbor, It’s Only Natural market. We also continue the original tradition of our founder, Susan Allison, and maintain a used book store.
Many thanks to our generous supporters who help us to continuously provide arts & culture to the Middletown community:
