The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) — September 2, 2025 – The Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation/Historic Masonic Theatre is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a General Operating Support grant from the Virginia Commission for the Arts. This state funding acknowledges our impactful contributions to Virginia and its citizens.
The Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) is the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts across the Commonwealth of Virginia. It plays a crucial role in enhancing Virginia’s economy and arts ecosystem through substantial grants. Supported by the General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, the VCA will invest $5.5 million in communities across Virginia in FY26. The Commission receives applications from
nonprofit arts organizations, local governments, and other entities throughout the Commonwealth, awarding approximately 700+ grants in arts investments.
Bruce Loving, Board President of The Masonic Theatre Preservation Foundation, stated: “We are honored to receive a general operating support grant from the Virginia Commission on the Arts (VCA) for the 2026 fiscal year. This type of support is only awarded to organizations that demonstrate the highest artistic and organizational standards through a rigorous application process. Receiving this competitive grant is a strong vote of confidence from the VCA, affirming that the Historic Masonic Theatre is well-managed and worthy of investment.”
He continued: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Interim Executive Director Teresa Hammond, Director of Operations Wendy Hudler, and Production Coordinator Caleb Morrison for their dedication and hard work at the Theatre. A special thanks to June House of JH Grant Services for her exceptional work on the grant application and to the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Planning Commission and the Town of Clifton Forge for making her services available to us.”
ABOUT THE HISTORIC MASONIC THEATRE
The Theatre stands as a testament to the vision of earlier citizens The Historic Masonic Theatre was beautifully renovated and reopened in 2016. The 120 year old building is a gem in the heart of Clifton Forge and serves as a performing arts venue and a community gathering place. The 6.7-million-dollar renovation has rehabilitated all four floors of the Theatre, the third-floor ballroom warming kitchen and studios, the balcony level with offices and conference room, the auditorium with stage and lobby, and the lower-level dressing rooms, concessions and underground lounge.
The Theatre stands as a testament to the vision of earlier citizens of the area who sought to foster educational and entertainment opportunities as well as community fellowship. The Historic Masonic Theatre holds a special place in the hearts and minds of a supportive community and it looks to the community to keep it strong and vital for years to come.
ABOUT VIRGINIA COMMISSION FOR THE ARTS
The Virginia Commission for the Arts, established in 1968, is the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts across the Commonwealth of Virginia. The VCA fulfills its mission through funding from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, distributing grant awards to Virginia artists; arts organizations; educational institutions; nonprofit organizations; educators; and local and tribal governments.
Learn more at www.vca.virginia.gov.
