Local leaders congratulate Artpark on 50th anniversary season; photos from recent years

by jmaloni

Fri, Jul 19th 2024 10:55 am

Just days before Artpark & Company’s grand celebration of its 50th anniversary season, local elected leaders raised a glass to toast the Lewiston performing and visual arts venue.

Niagara County Legislature Chairwoman Becky Wydysh said, "Artpark is one of those very few institutions that become such a part of the community that you cannot imagine there was ever a time when it did not exist. For 50 years, Artpark has been a cultural centerpiece for Lewiston, Niagara County and all of Western New York – a beacon for those blessed with creative talents to indulge their passions while providing an opportunity for the rest of us to appreciate the fruits of their labor. And if that wasn’t enough, we take in these artistic achievements in a natural setting that is beyond compare. Artpark is truly a treasure for our community, something that I hope will continue to be celebrated for many generations to come.”

Assemblyman Angelo Morinello said, “Congratulations to Artpark on their 50th anniversary.

“Artpark is a staple in the arts, culture and entertainment community. Western New York residents and visitors from all over the world have enjoyed Artpark’s natural beauty, history and performances. The Earl W. Brydges Artpark was officially established in 1974, but many do not realize that the park is located on land of cultural and spiritual significance to Indigenous people. It is situated on land that was the first French Trading Post in the new world. Due to its beautiful scenery and location to Niagara Falls and the Niagara Gorge, this specific piece of land has been in continuous use for more than 2,000 years.

“There’s nothing like enjoying a concert on a warm summer night, an art festival in the fall or a family graduation ceremony in the spring. It truly is a magical place, and I am beyond grateful that we all get to enjoy it. Here’s to another 50 years!”

New York State Sen. Rob Ortt said, “Congratulations to Artpark & Company for 50 years of being a huge part of Western New York. Artpark has brought some of the best musicians, artists and creators from around the world to our area. Their presence helps to add not only an economic benefit – but also one of culture to our community. I’d like to thank Interim President Dave Wedekindt and the entire team at Artpark for their dedicated work and wish them another 50 years of remarkable service.”

Village of Lewiston Mayor Anne Welch said, “Congratulations to Earl W. Brydges Artpark State Park on their 50th year anniversary. It is a beautiful park in the Village of Lewiston and home to the Artpark performing arts, offering art, music, theater and family fun. Over the years, residents and visitors alike have enjoyed this scenic park nestled along the historical and picturesque Niagara River. Whether hiking, biking, picnicking or attending concerts, graduations and events, Artpark has been enjoyed by many, and we are fortunate to have them in our village.”

Town of Lewiston Supervisor Steve Broderick said, “Artpark & Company is a big part of the Lewiston community and what makes it so special, and I would like to take this opportunity to wish them a happy 50th anniversary season.”

Bill Geiben, a former Village of Lewiston trustee and mayor, Town of Lewiston councilman, and Artpark team member, shared, “Myself and many Lewiston residents watched Artpark construction back in the 1970s. Many of us anxiously awaited opening night July 25, 1974, to hear and see Ethel Merman who was the headliner. The place was packed to the rafters. I’m sure it was more than a sellout. That night was the first time I was officially connected to Artpark, as I was hired to sell lawn tickets out of a little freestanding booth. Tickets were $2 each and there was no limit. I stopped selling tickets when Ethel Merman started to sing, and went up on the lawn with thousands of others. An awesome experience.

“Over the years, I had many positions at Artpark, from selling lawn tickets to being the volunteer coordinator and assistant box office treasurer. The job I most enjoyed was being a park ranger, assisting Artpark visitors and driving the old tram. Between jobs, I also volunteer as an usher in the Mainstage Theater.

“Besides working at Artpark, I also served about 12 years as a Lewiston village trustee, which led me to become a watchdog toward Artpark and its impact on the village. Some local residents call Artpark an ‘attractive nuisance.’ They loved the cultural aspect of Artpark, but sometimes complained about the crowds, the traffic and the noise, which were ‘the sounds of summer.’

“My two daughters loved Artpark especially ART (Artpark Repertory Theater); activities on, beneath and around the Art EL. And of course, climbing on the big rock pile. I’m sure my kids would have had a great life growing up in Lewiston without Artpark, but also sure that Artpark enhanced their quality of life with great activities and experiences, both indoors and outdoors.

“Thank you, Artpark, for 50 years of entertainment, and bringing so many visitors to the Village of Lewiston.”

More about Artpark & Company

Established in 1974 as a collaboration between New York State Parks and the nonprofit Artpark & Company, Artpark welcomes artists to enjoy and be inspired by the dramatic scenery and rich history of the Niagara River Gorge, and welcomes visitors and locals to enjoy the art and experiences created on its 150 acres.

Over the decades, Artpark has hosted tens of thousands of groundbreaking visual artists; cutting-edge theater, dance and cirque arts performers; beloved bands and musicians representing a multitude of genres; festivals featuring local, national and international artists, poets and writers and more – earning a worldwide reputation as a special place for people of all ages and walks of life to make and experience art.

This living cultural legacy weaves into the area’s history and present-day significance to Western New York’s Indigenous population and the Niagara River and Gorge’s extraordinary natural beauty, accessible to visitors through forested trails, sculpture gardens, and outdoor recreation areas.

Artpark is all this and more. Come experience it for yourself.

Discover more of Artpark’s storied history online at https://www.artpark.net/about-artpark.

Artpark is located at 450 S. Fourth St., Lewiston. Visit www.artpark.net.

Description courtesy of Artpark & Company.