Tryon Fine Arts Center is now in its 42nd year of bringing arts experiences to the community.

The Annual Fund Drive, launched several weeks ago by president Loren Smith, is only $11,000 short of reaching the goal of $50,000. Supporting the arts through TFACs Annual Fund guarantees that the center will continue to bring visual and performing arts experiences to all ages in the community and beyond.

Executive director Beth Child said she is pleased with the success of the drive thus far.

TFAC has continued to thrive because this generous community understands how important their gifts are to the programming and operations of the center. Weve just completed a wonderful fall season of free and ticketed events that simply would not have been possible without donations from individuals, Child said.

With help from donors, one of the best small modern dance companies in the world created a magical evening and taught a master class to 14 area students. Donors also helped bring photography, gospel music and Handels Messiah to people who had never been to TFAC through the auspices of the Foothills Humane Society, Singing for the Soldiers and area musicians.

Because of Annual Fund gifts, one of the worlds greatest brass bands Hot 8 from New Orleans brought audiences to their feet, not only on the TFAC stage, but at Polk County High School. Drama for young people provided an incredible experience as six young actors toured 13 schools and brought Mark Twains life and words to 2,500 students.

Ticket prices are only a small part of TFACs budget. If you would like to help Tryon Fine Arts Center reach its goal, mail or deliver a check to 34 Melrose Avenue in Tryon or call 828-859-8322 with your credit card.