Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – May 17, 2024 – The Foundation of Arts hopes to offer a new venue for local artists this summer.
Joe Carr, Creative Director at the FOA, told JRN that they are excited to bring this new entertainment opportunity to the downtown area. The venue, located at 330 S Main, has been used by the FOA for a number of projects in the past, including a Blackbox theatre, dance studio, and wedding venue.
The new “Stage, Too Weekends” series hopes to offer shows from local musicians, small plays, and other fun entertainment options on Friday and Saturday nights starting this summer. Carr also said they hope to offer “daytime classes” leading up to the nighttime entertainment schedule each weekend.
The FOA has contracted local businessman and bartender Brian Nobles to apply for a permit to be able to sell alcohol during these events. The first reading is scheduled for the City Council meeting on May 21.
Councilman David McClain told JRN that the City of Jonesboro has “tossed around” the idea of turning downtown into an “Entertainment District.” These are areas where guests aged 21 and older can carry alcoholic beverages in approved open containers in public spaces within the boundaries of the district.
In order to establish a district of such nature, either the City Administration or a Council Member would need to sponsor a motion, hold it to three readings, and wait 30 days.
Councilman LJ Bryant told JRN that there have been discussions about the district being established in Jonesboro as far back as January, but he doesn’t know of any current plans to add the measure to a meeting agenda.