Local Nonprofit Seeks Revitalization of CPAC

The Caribou Performing Arts Center opened its doors back in 1989 billing itself as the largest facility of its kind north of Bangor.

Now in it's 30th anniversary year, a local nonprofit is working to revitalize CPAC. The Center for Advancement of Rural Living (CARL) is seeking the support of local businesses to sponsor events. So far, over $10,000 has been raised.

CPAC has hosted numerous events in the past 30 years however, in recent times activity has been infrequent. Coordinating the effort is Darci Faye who said that she is working to recruit community participation. “We have been very pleased with our initial support from local businesses. We are now in the process of booking some familiar acts as well as some exciting new performers”.

Tim Goff, Branch Manager of the Machias Savings Bank in Presque Isle, which donated $1000 to the rejuvenation,  said that the bank is excited to see the new revitalization effort underway.

Organizers are hoping to generate enough support to bring larger acts to the County.  The Bangor Symphony Orchestra, Three Dog Night, America, and other higher priced performers are some of the acts that have been contacted. Besides acts currently being booked, CARL hopes to offer other performances including theater productions, classical music, local talent reviews, children’s programs and more.

CARL is also trying to re-establish ‘Friends of the Arts’, an advisory group that will help to develop a long range plan for the performing arts center and build community support. The ‘Friends of the Arts’ will meet the last Tuesday of every month from 4-6pm at the Caribou Public Library.  Anyone interested in becoming part of the organization is urged to contact Darci Caitlin Faye by email at darci.faye@maine.edu.  Local businesses who would like to become sponsors of CPAC are also invited to contact Faye by email.