The Ark is dedicated to the enrichment of the human spirit through the presentation, preservation and encouragement of folk, roots and ethnic music and related arts. COVID-19 has forced us to temporarily close our doors, but the spirit of music lives on. The Ark continues to fulfill its mission through new livestreaming concerts, virtual youth and educational programs and expanded social media outreach, keeping people connected to music and each other until we can gather together again.
An internationally acclaimed home for live music for 55 years, The Ark has been forced to cancel over 100 events to-date and close its doors for an indefinite period due to COVID-19. A vast array of music lovers are longing for musical experiences to enrich pandemic-weary spirits and reclaim some sense of "normal," and countless touring musicians' livelihoods have been impacted by venue closures. The Ark is committed to continuing to enrich spirits through music at a time when it's needed most.
The Ark pivoted quickly to continue serving artists and music lovers and provide community connection through virtual programming and social media outreach. While our venue is closed, we're delivering 15-20 virtual events monthly to thousands of constituents, including our new free-access Ark Family Room Series livestream concerts, and youth, educational and family programs. This new programming expands music's reach, increases accessibility, and will serve the music community beyond COVID-19.
Ensuring The Ark's resiliency during COVID-19 and beyond will preserve a long, rich history of folk, roots and ethnic music, expand access to these musical roots, and further empower The Ark--an iconic cultural institution--to support and promote the future of this music. As a key midwest venue, The Ark can play a leading role in the recovery of a beloved community and the hard-hit music industry ecosystem that supports thousands of artists and millions of music lovers.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
