Business Details
6 Years
experience
Experience Performing Arts in a Historic Venue
Fort Hill Performing Arts Center Canandaigua (FHPAC) has been dedicated to enriching and entertaining the Finger Lakes Region through exceptional visual and performing arts since its grand opening on January 10, 2020. Housed in a beautifully restored 1928 historic landmark, our mission is to provide a vibrant home for diverse artistic programming that inspires both patrons and artists. Our venue features a versatile 387-seat theater, a mezzanine with optimal sightlines, and state-of-the-art technical capabilities, making us a premier destination for concerts, ballets, theatrical performances, film screenings, and community events.With a commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and accessibility, we strive to make the arts accessible to all audiences while preserving the architectural integrity of our historic space. Our team of seasoned professionals brings decades of experience in the performing arts, ensuring every event meets the highest standards of quality and innovation. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we rely on community support to sustain our programming and continue our legacy as a cultural cornerstone of the Finger Lakes.
Services
Concerts
Theater Performances
Ballets
Film Screenings
Community Forums
Details
- Year established: 2020
Highlights and features
- We offer a historic, state-of-the-art venue with exceptional acoustics and sightlines.
- Our diverse programming includes concerts, ballets, theater, and film festivals.
- We prioritize accessibility with flexible seating and inclusive community programs.
- Our experienced team has decades of expertise in performing arts production.
- We host unique events like the Ewing Forum for thought-provoking community discourse.
What people say
Exceptional sightlines
Historic ambiance
Diverse programming
Excellent acoustics
Community-focused events
Services
Theater Rentals
Our 387-seat theater with retractable seating and modern technical capabilities accommodates diverse productions. The stage features a 34x18 proscenium, fly loft, and a spiral lift for versatile set configurations. Ideal for large-scale performances, conferences, and special events in a historic setting.
Concert Series
From tribute acts like Taylor's Story to classical ensembles, our concert series showcases diverse musical talent. Performances utilize our state-of-the-art sound system and intimate seating arrangement to create immersive auditory experiences for audiences of all ages.
Ballet Performances
Presented by Rochester City Ballet, our ballet productions feature professional dancers and elaborate staging. The venue's excellent sightlines and historic grandeur enhance classic performances like The Nutcracker and contemporary dance works.
Film Screenings
Silent film screenings with live organ accompaniment offer unique cinematic experiences. The venue's restored 1928 architecture creates an authentic atmosphere for classic film presentations with modern enhancements like themed VIP packages.
Community Forums
The Ewing Forum series hosts thought leaders on topics ranging from environmental conservation to media literacy. These moderated discussions provide educational opportunities and foster civic engagement in an intimate theater setting.
People
Sueann Townsend
Executive Director
20-year professional dancer and former director of Amherst Massachusetts Ballet. Led FHPAC's programming development and operational strategy since 2020. Created community-focused initiatives like Ballet For All! to expand arts access.
Gordon J. Estey
President
Veteran theater technician with 45+ years experience. Designed over 400 productions including work with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Served as technical director for Finger Lakes Opera and CMAC amphitheater projects.
Rosemary Park
Vice President
Webmaster and graphic design lead with extensive experience in theater operations. Manages front-of-house logistics and volunteer coordination for FHPAC's 200+ annual events.
Questions
What types of events does FHPAC host?
We present performing arts including music, dance, theater, and film. Our programming ranges from tribute concerts and ballets to community forums and silent film screenings.
Is FHPAC accessible for patrons with disabilities?
Yes, our venue includes elevator access to the mezzanine, removable orchestra seating for special needs, and gender-neutral restrooms. Contact us for specific accommodation requests.
How can I purchase tickets?
Buy tickets online through our website, by phone during box office hours (Tuesday-Friday 10am-1pm), or at the door 3 hours before showtime.
Are there group discounts available?
Group pricing is available for select performances. Contact our box office directly at 585-412-6043 to inquire about group rates for your party.
Can I rent the venue for private events?
Yes, our theater and gallery spaces are available for rentals. Visit our website for venue rental policies and technical specifications.
What is FHPAC's cancellation policy?
Events canceled by FHPAC receive automatic refunds. No refunds for personal cancellations unless specified in event terms. Rescheduled shows automatically transfer ticket validity.
