The Greater Uniontown Heritage Consortium (GUHC), which owns and operates the historic State Theatre Center for the Arts, has announced a strategic restructuring initiative designed to strengthen the organization’s operations, sustainability, and community impact for generations to come.
For more than a century, the State Theatre has stood as a cornerstone of culture, history, and entertainment in Fayette County. As arts organizations across the nation face new challenges, the Theatre’s Board of Directors has undertaken a careful review of its structure and long-term goals to ensure the Theatre not only survives but thrives in the years ahead.
“This decision was not made lightly,” said Megan Clark, President of the Board of Directors. “Change can be difficult, but it’s also necessary. In a time when performing arts venues everywhere are struggling, we’re choosing to move forward to invest in our future, our staff, and our community.”
The restructuring will introduce a new leadership model designed to increase collaboration, efficiency, and transparency across all areas of the organization. This includes newly defined positions such as General Director and Operations Manager, each focused on key priorities: programming excellence, financial stewardship, facility management, and community engagement. Taking on these new positions are John Wagner as General Director and Chaz Berkshire as Operations Manager. “We are thrilled to have John and Chaz as we begin this new journey,”. Along with welcoming new leadership, patrons will also notice a few exciting changes. Public box office hours will now be Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Additionally, our website will soon be undergoing updates to better serve our community and provide easier access to event information and ticketing.
“The State Theatre has been through many chapters in its 100+ year history – from vaudeville to film, from closures to restoration,” said Clark. “This next chapter is about sustainability. It’s about ensuring that the Theatre remains a living, breathing part of our downtown, and a place where generations to come can experience the joy of live performance.”
The Board emphasized that the restructuring reflects a proactive step toward long-term financial health, improved day-to-day operations, and greater alignment with the Theatre’s mission to preserve, promote, and present the performing arts in the region.
Community members, patrons, and partners are encouraged to stay connected as the Theatre moves through this transition. Upcoming announcements will highlight new programming, volunteer opportunities, and ways to contribute to the Theatre’s ongoing success.
For more information, please visit www.statetheatre.info or contact info@statetheatre.info
