Canvas of Creativity
Come experience the City of Reading's vibrant arts community
By Aaron Gantz, Senior Director of Economic Development, GRCA
Berks Arts
Berks Arts is a dynamic arts organization known for presenting a diverse range of events and programs that celebrate artistic expression and engage the community. From the renowned annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, Berks Blues Fest and the new Berks Summer Fest to art exhibitions, performances and educational initiatives, the organization is committed to promoting the arts and nurturing creativity. Berks Arts plays a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive arts community in the region.
Bario Alegría
Organizations like Barrio Alegría focus on community transformation through the arts as a platform for community engagement and empowerment. Through dance, acting, painting and storytelling to just name a few, it works to build and strengthen communities, creating safe spaces for vulnerable community members and fostering social and multicultural awareness.
Genesius Theatre
Genesius Theatre is an excellent community theater, producing a wide range of theatrical productions, including musicals, plays and youth theater shows. Known for its dedication to high-quality performances and fostering local talent, Genesius Theatre has become a beloved institution in the arts and culture scene of Reading. A small space that has so much heart and charm!
Goggleworks Center for the Arts
The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is a creative haven where art, culture and education converge. Housed in a former goggle factory campus, the Center for the Arts offers artists and visitors a vibrant space to explore and create through studios, galleries and workshops. With its diverse range of artistic disciplines and engaging programming, GoggleWorks is a catalyst for artistic expression, community engagement and cultural enrichment in the heart of the City.
Miller Center for the Arts
The Miller Center for the Arts, part of the Reading Area community College, is known for its exceptional lineup of concerts, theatrical performances and cultural events. With its state-of-the-art facilities and acoustics, the intimate theater provides an immersive experience for both performers and audiences. From renowned musicians to captivating stage productions, the Miller Center for the Arts offers a diverse range of artistic options.
Reading Film Office
The Reading Film Office serves as a central hub for the growing film industry in Greater Reading. From supporting local filmmakers to attracting film and television productions, the office plays a crucial role in fostering the art of filmmaking and economic growth. Additionally, the organization produces the annual Reading FilmFEST, a celebrated event that showcases a wide range of films and brings together filmmakers, industry professionals and film enthusiasts to celebrate the power of storytelling all in Reading.
Reading Symphony Orchestra
The Reading Symphony Orchestra (RSO) is known for its exceptional musical performances and artistic excellence. With a rich history spanning over 100 years, the orchestra showcases and hosts the talents of world-class musicians season after season at the Santander Performing Arts Center. From symphonies to pops concerts to the Youth Orchestra, the RSO continues to inspire, uplift and entertain music lovers of all ages.
Santander Performing Arts Center | Santander Arena
Both the Santander Performing Arts Center and Arena continue to captivate audiences with world-class entertainment, consistently selling out shows and creating unforgettable experiences. From electrifying concerts to thrilling sporting events, the arena’s popularity and demand showcase the strong community support for top-notch entertainment in Downtown Reading.
Reading Public Museum
The Reading Public Museum is a cultural gem offering a captivating blend of art, science and history. With its impressive collection of art, fascinating exhibitions and interactive displays, the Museum, Neag Planetarium and the Museum Arboretum provide enriching experiences for visitors of all ages. From ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces, the Museum invites exploration and discovery, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world’s diverse cultures and natural wonders.
Don’t forget public art can be found throughout the city in neighborhoods, public spaces and even businesses. From captivating murals that tell stories of the city’s history and culture to intriguing sculptures, public art enriches the urban landscape, inviting residents and visitors to engage with art and place in unexpected ways.
In the City of Reading, art thrives as a powerful force that continues to transform the community and enrich lives. Reading emerges as a dynamic canvas of creativity, inviting everyone to be part of its community. As Berks County native Keith Haring said, “Art is for everybody.”
