Credit: Patrick Grego
The Stissing Center for Arts and Culture has received a major funding boost, with State Assemblymember Didi Barrett and State Sen. Michelle Hinchey announcing a $750,000 state pledge aimed at supporting accessibility upgrades and renovations for the Pine Plains venue.
The funding, secured to enhance the center’s structural stability, marks the first step in a nine-phase plan to increase accessibility and outreach. Through 2030, the center aims to raise an additional $5.5 million to complete its vision, which includes constructing a rear addition, expanding programming, and adding a community theater, outdoor stage, cellar venue, and catering kitchen. Plans also call for a roof replacement and continued improvements to the venue’s structure, technology, and theatrical equipment.
“Making sure that folks regardless of their ability are able to come and experience a show, whether that’s children or adults, is really important,” Hinchey told the Herald. “We’re so excited to participate and support this project because we want to make sure that everyone in the community here in Pine Plains — and around the region — knows that Stissing Center and all of its shows and the stories that they are presenting, are available for everyone.”
Credit: Patrick Grego
Gwen Greene, the center’s board president-elect, said, “The funding tells everybody that we have arrived. We’re serious about becoming an integral part of this community, and we’re thrilled to take the next steps forward, thanks to this incredible support from our state leaders.”
The mission of the center is to “positively impact our community by partnering with artists, individuals and organizations to create meaningful programs, events and opportunities.” Since opening in 2019, it has offered an array of performances and cultural events, from plays, to concerts to free dance nights and shows for kids.
The center’s executive director, Brett Bernardini, underscored the pledge’s value: “This significant gift represents a huge vote of confidence in what we can achieve together. Our mission is to uplift Pine Plains and the broader region. The improvements will allow us to continue serving as a cultural bridge, connecting individuals, celebrating local talent and fostering a sense of community that enriches us all.”
The funding not only provides for immediate structural improvements but is seen as an investment in the area’s long-term economic development.
“Stissing Center has brought so many vibrant opportunities to Pine Plains and its surrounding communities,” Hinchey said. “Making sure that the arts are accessible to people is incredibly important. Not only is it joyful and it provides a nice thing to do in your evenings, but it also opens people’s minds and eyes to things that maybe they weren’t aware of before. It shouldn’t just be something that you have access to by living in a more urban area. Our rural community members deserve that too.”
Barrett agreed and emphasized the regional economic impact, adding, “Hubs like this drive folks to shop locally, dine in our restaurants, and consider Pine Plains a destination. It’s a win-win-win, and I’m thrilled to support it.”
