Warren Arts Foundation Supporting Theater In Rural Communities

A group of parents and volunteers that wanted more in their community.

That is how the Warren County Arts Foundation became the theater scene for a rural community. Executive Director Sheri Denning said in 2017, the nonprofit organization was formed.

“We were looking for a way to create something for our families and for ourselves in our county, Warren County, instead of having to drive to Cannon County or Coffee County or Murfreesboro or wherever to be involved,” Denning said. “So, we came together and had a meeting.”

Ever since that meeting, Denning said 29 shows have been produced. Denning said seeing the performance art culture grow in Warren County has been the most rewarding thing she has accomplished.

“We’re at hundreds of people that have been a part of the show and continue to come back,” Denning said. “People come in, because they are curious with what we are doing, and they stay because they love it. They release how much they learn about themselves, and there is so many people that have multiple family members involved, so it is also a way for them to spend time with their family.”

Denning said putting on productions is more than just entertaining the community. It is helping people find their passion.

“We offer people the chance to learn something that they didn’t know,” Denning said. “So, it is not just for actors and performers. We have a multitude of people who only come, because they want to do the creative sides of the artistic work. So, we are allowing them a place to just go be immersed.”

The Warren Arts Foundation is currently in a series of youth lead shows. Denning said kids 18 and younger direct, produce and act their own performances. The next showing is James and the Giant Peach Jr. beginning May 6th.