JOIN US! We're Hiring a House Manager/Volunteer Coordinator Learn More »

Press Releases

Philanthropists Dave and Brenda Rickey help #FilltheSmith with generous matching gift

Fill the Smith. Help us #fillthesmith on March 26

On Friday, March 26th, The Smith Center for the Arts will be celebrating World Theatre Day by hosting a 24-hour, virtual Giving Day called #FilltheSmith and seeking a donation for every seat in the house or 1400 in all. Philanthropists Dave and Brenda Rickey will be matching a portion of the gifts received on this day, enabling donors to double their gift and impact. To learn more about the event, visit donate.thesmith.org

“It’s been a while since The Smith has enjoyed a community-led fundraising event such as the annual Celebrate Smith dinner or 2019’s spectacular ‘Silk and Tassel,’” says Susan Monagan, executive director of the Smith Center of the Arts “We’re excited to break new ground and use the online space to celebrate the arts in our community. We have gotten lots of help in making this day great! Save the date!” 

#FilltheSmith is all about celebrating The Smith and her perseverance, beauty, and continued impact on Geneva and the Finger Lakes, despite the recent challenges presented by the global pandemic. Individuals who donate on March 26th will receive special filmed performances or tutorials by local and regional performers and experts. All these special online mini-events will be announced on the giving day. 

“We want to emphasize the message that on #FilltheSmith Day no gift is too small. If you’ve ever had fun onstage at The Smith or sat and smiled in one of her red velvet seats, now’s the time to be counted as one of the 1400 Smith donors!” says Monagan. “When you donate, you’ll be immediately rewarded with some exclusive online content to entertain and uplift you. Over the course of the 24 hour period, we have chefs, singers, instructors, and current and former Hobart & William Smith Colleges presidents all lined up to make you feel great about supporting Geneva’s cultural landmark.”

The Smith Center for the Arts, stewards of the historic Smith Opera House, provides diverse arts and educational enrichment opportunities year-round for Finger Lakes residents and visitors. The Smith Opera House is at 82 Seneca St. in Geneva, NY. Due to COVID-19, our box office is only open by appointment. If you wish to leave a message for our staff, please email boxoffice@thesmith.org or call (315)781-5483 to leave a voicemail. For more information visit www.thesmith.org.