MORE ABOUT 52 SUMNER & SPAV

52 Sumner, by Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, Inc. (“SPAV”), the vibrant new arts and entertainment venue in Springfield’s historic Forest Park neighborhood, continues to awaken Greater Springfield’s cultural scene. Located in a beautifully renovated 125-year-old former church, 52 Sumner has quickly become a community hub for live music, theatrical performances, and unique events.

Springfield Performing Arts Ventures Inc. (SPAV) is a nonprofit organization which utilizes 52 Sumner as its performance and event venue. SPAV is devoted to creating an atmosphere where all members of the community can experience the arts. The non-profit organization and venue were created to provide affordable and accessible arts to the region including original live music, the best-of-the-best cover artists, theater, networking, Symphony sounds, performance art, and so much more.

Designed to create a space for the local community to interact with the arts in new and vibrant ways, the performances hosted at 52 Sumner not only provide entertainment but also help raise money to help fund other programming. When you come to an event at 52 Sumner you are not only enjoying a live performance, you’re also helping others gain access to and appreciation for the arts.

HOW DID A CHURCH BECOME A VENUE WITH A MISSION?

It all began when Angela Park was searching for a new location for her award winning after school programs. Faith United Church, which sadly had been shuttered for many years, was for sale, so she took a look. The location was perfect for her current after school programs, although she was unsure how to best utilize the sanctuary of the former church at the time, she went ahead with the purchase intended for the children’s programs. 

Little did anyone know at that time that the stage had just been set for even more. Angela teamed up with Dan McKellick, an attorney by day, and the scene was set for the next act.

Although the script wasn’t yet written – the spark of a vision had been lit – and with the help of some creative minds, the sanctuary was determined to be an ideal space to host live performances and create a place where people could come together to enjoy cultural experiences.

After over a year of renovations which included a new sound system and lighting, refinished floors and newly painted walls, the sanctuary area of the 125 year old former church became the home to a unique performance venue. Opening the doors to the first public event on December 7, 2023 and never turning back, SPAV and 52 Sumner have continued to grow and welcome more neighbors of all ages in to enjoy performances of all types.

Help support Springfield Performing Arts Venture Inc. with your donation.