Erected in 1866, the WCR Center for the Arts holds within its walls 150 years of history in the Berks County, Reading Community. Since 1919, its auditorium has been the home to many famous musicians and even our 28th president, Woodrow Wilson.  It has held numerous concerts, lecture series, theatrical performances, wedding receptions and social gatherings. Musicians from all over the world continue to seek out the WCR Center for the Arts to perform because of its near perfect acoustical quality and elegant charm.

 

In 2004, a voluntary board made up of community leaders and loyal patrons established the WCR Center for the Arts as a nonprofit organization with the mission: "to restore and preserve the historic building for the continued benefit of the community." At that time, a capital campaign was launched to renovate the building, raising over $400,000 thus far in cash donations, grant funding, contributions & in-kind services. To complete the third phase of the renovations $150,000 is needed.

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These much needed renovations keep this historic building thriving to benefit the local community providing a series of grant funded youth recitals and free concerts each year. 

 

Phase I: Completed in 2004  | $370,000

• Design/Architectural Plans

• Project Cost Estimate/Obtain Bids

• Correct 25 building Code Violations

• New Bathrooms

• Upgrade Electrical System

• HVAC System Replacement

Phase II: In - Progress 2015-16 | $70,000

• Re- point and Seal Brick

• Patch Roof

• Replace Auditorium Door

• Repair Interior Basement Walls

• Plaster Repair and Paint First Floor Auditorium and Hallway

Phase III Fundraising in Progress | $150,000

• Replace Roof

• Replace Gutters and Downspouts

• Window Sill Replacement

• Install / Replace New Windows & Dormers

• 2nd & 3rd floor Ceiling and Wall Repair Plaster & Paint

• New Auditorium Tables and Chairs

• Replace Carpet