The mission of The Center for Arts in Natick is to bring people together...through the arts.

TCAN is an authorized 501(c)(3) Public Charity, incorporated as Natick Performing Arts Center, Inc. in 1997. Contributions to TCAN are tax-deductible, to the amount allowable by law.

TCAN provides a cultural center to the MetroWest Boston region, where national and emerging artists present performances, literary events, and art exhibitions in an environment that brings together individuals and families, children and seniors. Classes in music, theatre, dance and visual arts are regularly held for students of all ages.

TCAN's Firehouse venue defines the ideal performance space for music concerts, theatrical and dance presentations, lectures, film programs and special functions in the MetroWest area. This historic (c.1875) Summer Street Firehouse building has been carefully restored as a theatre, art gallery and community center with space to accommodate art exhibits and business offices.

History of the Firehouse TCAN's Board of Directors Executive Director and Staff Facility and Production

In the heart of Natick's revitalized downtown area, the building sits among striking turn-of-the-century architecture and elegant new construction. TCAN is at the crossroads of culture in the Metrowest region - part of a vibrant downtown area that features the Morse Institute Library, the Walnut Hill School for the performing arts and a backdrop of artist studios, dance studios, galleries, fine restaurants and craft boutiques.

PROGRAMS
National Performers - Spanning all music styles, featured artists have included George Winston, Livingston Taylor, Richie Havens, the Second City comedy troupe, Jimmy Webb, Roger McGuinn, Cheryl Wheeler and many others.

Emerging Artists - Local and regional artists are presented as openers and headliners, and the community is invited to participate in Folk Open Mic, Rock Off Main Street for young bands, SpeakEasy! spoken word jams and other open performance events.

Arts Education - Youth acting and improv workshops, classes in dance and creative movement are led by the area's best instructors. A series of family arts events introduce children to music and theater, storytelling events, marionette shows and other programs.

Classical Music - The best of the chamber music repertoire including performances by the Lydian String Quartet, Triple Helix trio, Intermezzo Opera, pianists Frederick Moyer and Virginia Eskin and guest artists from the New England Conservatory.

Community Theatre - The TCAN Players attract the area's top actors to productions such as To Kill A Mockingbird, Forever Plaid, Miracle on 34th Street, The Foreigner, Dancing at Lughnasa and other shows, under the direction of local directors and producers.

Visual Arts - Monthly gallery exhibits are displayed at TCAN and three satellite galleries, including an annual juried art show, photography exhibits, and presentations by student artists from local high schools. Classes in photography technique and painting are scheduled throughout the year.