Smith Center Blog

Discovering The Smith Center

Board Chairman Recalls Turning Points That Made The Smith Center Possible

When asked about his favorite visits to The Smith Center, Don Snyder says that includes every time he steps foot inside. “I end up watching the (audience) as much as I watch the performances,” says Snyder, Smith Center Board Chairman. “I like to see the reactions people have when they’re in the facility.”  It’s no wonder Snyder feels emotional about The Smith Center, as he devoted roughly 20 years to helping fundraise, plan and construct it.

Discovering The Smith Center

The Art Of Sound

Kevin Harvey had barely entered his teenage years when a singular experience set him on his life’s course.  “I went to see The Who in Bristol (England) in 1966 when I was 13, and it completely changed my life,” Harvey says. “I realized I couldn’t be Pete Townshend, but I could be the soundman.”

Performances and Artists

Revelations and Resilience

Odewale has devoted herself to uncovering inspiring stories in the century since the attack. She has discovered not only stunning truths about the event but also revelations of how the Greenwood District persevered to evolve into the thriving community it is today.

Performances and Artists

Petty Cash to Play Greatest Hits of Tom Petty and Johnny Cash on April 6

Todd Morse is no stranger to titanic fame. As the bassist for multiplatinum rock band The Offspring, he has witnessed worldwide worship of the group’s torrent of hits, with more than 40 million albums sold. Last year even saw the band’s largest national tour to date, which culminated in Las Vegas.

Education and Outreach

Education Is in Our DNA

Through a variety of programs, from free student matinees at Reynolds Hall to performances on school campuses to professional development opportunities for teachers in all curriculum areas and beyond, The Smith Center makes education its mission on a daily basis in meaningful and measurable ways.

Performances and Artists

How Grammy-Nominated Vocalist Ruthie Foster Crafts Music to Heal and Unite

Foster resolutely believes in music’s power to make divisions disappear, and she wields her passionate, fiery vocals to achieve just that. Influenced by legends like Aretha Franklin, Foster crafts a distinctive sound that nods to soul, gospel, blues, jazz and beyond, her nine studio albums garnering a steadfast fanbase across numerous contries, ages and backgrounds.