(Photo courtesy of Old Stone Church)
The Old Stone Church in the Historic District of downtown Bend has been reinvented as The Old Stone Performing Arts Center. Having been primarily a traditional church for most of its 104-years,its purpose has undergone a historic transformation.
The new event venue is already becoming home to a variety of artistic and cultural happenings and will serve as an event hub for Bend community locals and visitors to enjoy.
Built in 1912, “The Old Stone” is uniquely constructed. Its Craftsman architecture with Gothic and Tudor style details was meticulously designed. It is the first and only church constructed of tuff stone in Deschutes County. The magnificent stained glass windows sport a Bend commercial club seal, an indication that supporters of the Bend Commercial Club were also members of the First Presbyterian fellowship that built the church.
Various church groups owned the property until 2006. At that point, with a change to private ownership, there-invention of the Old Stone as as an event venue began. Uses have gradually expanded to include music concerts, public presentations, cinema, theatre fundraisers, weddings and other private functions as well as community events.
Many local people have stepped up to develop the new performing arts center. Included are Owner Peter Geiser, Venue Manager Lisa Ehlers, Howard Schor (businessperson and theatre producer), Jazz Artist Elise Franklin, Sound Expert Jim Bull and Photographer John Dotson, as well as a growing cadre of volunteers and sponsors.
As Geiser describes it, “The Old Stone is dedicated to hosting and producing events that enrich the cultural vitality of the community by serving its artistic and educational needs.”
It’s being structured as a social benefit company with a focus on community patrons and partnerships, its workers and the environment.
Now, thanks to Summers Flooring and Design, a 1,600 square foot oak dance floor adorns the space. The talented Will Nash has handcrafted the beautiful Altar Café serving on tap some of Bend’s favorite local draft beers at events along with wine and other libations.
Bend’s newest yet most historic event center is now hosting concerts, theatrer, dance, film, weddings and community events every week. Its new website www.oldstonebend.com provides information about upcoming events, sports a photo gallery, allows for event bookings and inquiries and opportunities to become involved.
Upcoming concerts include Dave McGraw and Mandy Fer, internationally acclaimed songwriters and two-time Sister’s Folk Festival favorites and and Shireen Amini and Chiringa, Latin dance fiesta meets funk rock fusion. The Dave and Mandy concert is on Friday, April 15 and Chiringa performs on Saturday April 23. A portion of the proceeds of the Chiringa After Earth Day Celebration will go tos upport the Environmental Center.
