A Summer of Creativity and Connection: The Impact of Your Support of the Arts in Ely and Northeast MN.

Summer may have flown by, but what a season it has been! At Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA), we’ve experienced an unforgettable year filled with performances and events that brought our community together in ways we could have only dreamed of. And it’s all thanks to YOU—our incredible supporters and audience members who make it all possible.

Reflecting on a Remarkable Summer

With your support of the arts in Ely and Northeast MN, we hosted 54 dynamic performances, drawing over 6,250 attendees from across the region—including some who traveled more than 1,500 miles to experience the vibrant arts scene right here in Ely. These aren’t just numbers; they’re a testament to the power of community and the essential role you play in keeping the arts alive in northeastern Minnesota.

Summer Highlights:

• Broadway in the Boundary Waters captivated over 2,550 theatergoers across 21 spectacular performances, making our corner of the North feel like the heart of Broadway.

• Greenstone Art Camps empowered 70 young artists to explore their creativity and express themselves through art, fostering a love for the arts in our next generation.

• We launched the first-ever Portage Land Music Festival during the Harvest Moon Festival, celebrating the rich musical talents of our region.

• Weekly performances at the Ely Farmers Market brought art into the heart of our community, proving that creativity truly belongs everywhere.

Your Impact in the Community

Your support goes beyond the stage and studio. These events generated an estimated $600,000 for the local economy, with every dollar spent on tickets resulting in an additional $6 spent at restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s a powerful reminder that investing in the arts is not just about entertainment—it’s about strengthening our entire community.

How Your Donations Make a Difference

Your generosity has already brought us so far, but we still need your help to reach our $25,000 goal. Here’s how your support can make a difference:

• $25: Provides essential art supplies for a child attending our Greenstone Art Camps.

• $100: Covers a full scholarship for a student in our Youth Theater Camp.

• $250: Funds a professional artist’s workshop, enriching community engagement.

• $500: Supports the creation of new murals as part of the Ely Mural Project.

• $1,000: Replaces aging lighting and sound equipment, enhancing the quality of our performances.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going

We’re so close to reaching our $25,000 goal! Every dollar donated will be matched, doubling the impact of your generosity. Your support is crucial to expanding our programming and making the arts accessible to everyone in Ely and beyond.

Ready to Make an Impact?

Make your donation by September 30, 2024, to help us shape the future of the arts in Ely. Click the button below to support NLAA’s mission and be a part of something truly special.

Donate Now!

Thank you for being such an integral part of our story. Your generosity and enthusiasm allow us to dream big and bring those dreams to life. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in the coming year!

Even if you can’t donate today, we’d love to see you at one of our upcoming performances. Check out our eventcalendar and join us for an evening of art, music, and community. Thank you for making a difference!