SKYPAC marks 14 years of arts and entertainment in Bowling Green

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center is celebrating 14 years of performances, programs and community events after first opening its doors in March 2012.

Since then, the venue has hosted national touring acts, local performers and school groups experiencing the arts for the first time. Leaders say the performing arts center has continued to grow in both the entertainment it brings to the region and the programs it offers the community.

Makenzie Belcher, associate marketing manager at SKYPAC, says the organization has evolved in several ways over the years.

“So I mean, there’s been so much growth and so many changes, whether it be leadership changes, whether it be entertainment changes, like the type of talent we’re bringing in,” Belcher said. “We’ve expanded in a lot of ways as well, physically and like throughout our departments, so of course, you know, next door, we’re getting our new Ramsay Theater annex.”

Belcher also pointed to the addition of the Ramsay Theater Company in 2023 as another step in expanding local arts opportunities in Bowling Green.

SKYPAC President and CEO Reed says the venue’s long-term vision is to make the center a regional hub for the arts while continuing to attract major performers.

“Our vision is for SKYPAC to be a venue that is the center for all things art for our region,” Reed said. “And part of that is to bring in world class talent… you know, big city concerts, but without the hassle of a big city.”

Recent investments at SKYPAC include updates to sound and lighting systems and a new marquee outside the venue. Construction is also underway on a 34,000-square-foot annex that will house the Ramsay Theater Company and support other programming.

Leaders say as the venue looks toward its 15th anniversary next year, they hope to continue expanding both performances and opportunities for the community to experience the arts.