Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
History and Architecture
The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is housed in a historic building originally constructed in 1917 as the Walter Reed School in Newport News' Southeast community. The structure has been meticulously restored and reopened to the public in October 2008 as a multi-purpose cultural venue. The restored historic building now serves as a vibrant hub for arts and cultural programming honoring the citys heritage while supporting contemporary artistic expression.
Performance Spaces
The centerpiece of the facility is the Ella Fitzgerald Theater a 276-seat professional performance venue named after the legendary First Lady of Song and Newport News native. The theater provides excellent acoustics and comfortable seating for theatrical performances concerts and cultural events. The building also contains meeting rooms and gathering spaces that accommodate various types of events and community activities.
Gallery Spaces and Visual Arts
The facility features three distinct gallery spaces for visual arts programming. The Anderson Johnson Gallery presents a permanent exhibit celebrating the life and work of legendary folk artist Anderson Johnson whose influential work impacted the Newport News community. The Newport News Community Gallery serves as a rotating exhibition space showcasing works by local and national contemporary visual artists. The Foyer Gallery provides additional exhibition space for community-based art displays and installations.
Music and Performance Programming
Downing-Gross hosts the 25 Mics monthly open mic series held on the second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM in the Newport News Community Gallery. This free family-friendly event welcomes musicians poets comedians storytellers and performers of all backgrounds and skill levels. The host Quinton Q5 Jennings-Sherman creates an inclusive environment celebrating local talent and community creativity. The open mic accepts performers on a first-come-first-served basis with sign-ups available at the event.
Educational and Community Programming
Beyond performance and gallery exhibitions the center offers instructional spaces including the Thaddeus Hayes Dance Studio art studio music room and other classroom facilities. Programs include instruction in visual arts dance music and theater with registration available through the citys recreation department. The facility hosts Write Now Literary Festival events summer programming exhibitions and auditions supporting various artistic disciplines.
Community Mission
Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is operated as a facility of the City of Newport News Parks and Recreation Department with a mission to promote cultural awareness provide opportunities for local artists and foster participation from all community members. The center welcomes visitors during regular business hours for gallery viewing and provides rental options for private events. It stands as a testament to Newport News' commitment to preserving cultural heritage while nurturing contemporary artistic expression and community engagement.
