A Fresh Take: Chesapeake Arts Center

By Riley Hoaglin

I recently had the opportunity to take a marvelous tour of the Chesapeake Arts Center (CAC). A few words that come to mind after visiting were: creative, inspiring, entertaining, and all-inclusive. Their facility is packed with high-end equipment, and it has a beautiful performing art space, and so much more!

This hidden gem is located in Northern Anne Arundel County, near the Baltimore Beltway. The Chesapeake Arts Center is a 58,000-square-foot multi-discipline arts facility. CAC offers a wide variety of art classes, diverse performances, and art exhibits.

I was shocked at the number and variety of the different classes you can take at the Chesapeake Arts Center! Their facility has unique equipment and technology that the community has the opportunity to use. One of my favorite areas was the MakerSpace. The MakerSpace “is a collaborative workspace designed to enhance a hands-on learning experience, bringing technology tools into the hands of our community, and fostering an environment for invention and play,” states the Chesapeake Arts Center. The space houses a screen printer, woodworking equipment, a 3D-printer, and a laser printer. You can find classes that teach you how to use the equipment, too. If you have more experience, you can sign up for an open studio slot. (Safety training is required for some classes.)

The class opportunity does not end there! CAC also has sewing, painting, dancing, ceramics, and many more classes! They offer classes for all ages and free family workshop days. Be sure to check their website to sign up for classes and workshops.

But wait, there is more! Not only does the Chesapeake Arts Center offer art classes, BUT they also have two incredible stages. My personal favorite space is their black box stage, Studio 194. It is an intimate space, with raised seating. CAC also has a large theatre, Hammonds Lane, which is a more traditional theatre space. Be sure to check out their schedule for upcoming performances. If you are looking to hold your next event, or performance, they also rent their theatre spaces!

Check out their website for performance schedules and adult, teen, and children’s class sign-ups. Registration for the winter season has begun as classes begin in January. Helpful tip: You can also become a member for discounts!

Needless to say, the Chesapeake Arts Center is a MUST-visit venue! Creativity and innovation is truly an idea they implement at their facility. CAC works hard to serve the community and give opportunities to all those willing to participate.

One last comment! Because the Chesapeake Arts Center is so great, they also have two gallery spaces with rotating exhibits. Be sure to check them out when you visit!