The Center's 2,400 sq. ft. state-of-the-art "black box" theatre stages the finest delegates of music genres from around the world. It also provides the perfect setting for small dramatic and musical productions. Whether theatre in the half round or a club setting, the modular riser and staging system is configured for an intimate presentation between the artist(s) and audience. With a maximum seating capacity of 240, there's not a bad seat in the house.

Holiday Dance

Celebrate the holidays, Saturday, December 10, 7:30-10:30pm at the Merced Multicultural Arts Center, 645 W. Main Street in downtown Merced. Dance to the music of Merced's local musicians "Just Friends" Gloria Coronas, Rudy Merino, Joel Nixon and Eddie Synigal.

Tickets are only $8.00, and if you buy before December 9, we'll include a complimentary glass of wine! Tickets can be purchased at the door for $10. All proceeds benefits the Merced County Arts Council and the Merced Multicultural Arts Center. For more information, call (209) 388-1090.

Visual Artists Wanted

In just a couple of months, the Arts Council will be accepting entries to exhibit at the Arts Center. Visit our "Exhibits" page for details on how to submit your work. Local artists strongly encouraged to apply!

Concerts for Children

2nd Saturdays is back and better than ever! What is 2nd Saturdays? It's a 45-minute performance for little ones (ages 3-7) the 2nd Saturday of the months during the school year. Shows start at 10:30 at the Arts Center. This is a great time for children to experience a live performance for the first time, and maybe even get to participate with the performers! The environment is casual and welcoming to every child. Tickets for children are only $5. Parents are free.

We started back up in February, when we welcomed back Cheryl Lockett http://calijazz.com/, in celebration of Black History Month. Her vocals ringing through the theatre were like taking a step back in time with Billie Holiday herself. Here's what's in store next!

March
Sweetie Pie celebrates the women in our lives and in history that who helped to shape the country and the arts. Local actress and writer Dawn Trook brings to life the famous women through storytelling.

April
Drumming Circle with Melody Buenafe
Melody Buenafe's performance will include music and movement activities utilizing various rhythm instruments, different genres of music, and a drum circle with many different kinds of drums. To honor Earth Month, Melody's percussion instruments will include those made of recycled and repurposed materials. A drum circle facilitator, Melody improves team building, recreational music making and health wellness; and development of children and adults of all abilities through that use of music.

May
Local resident Nancy Xiong, along with a little help from her friends, will perform to celebrate Asian Heritage Month with all of Merced's little ones. Children will get to make traditional crafts, play games, and even try on traditional Hmong costumes. Come join us as celebrate this rich culture and experience all of the beautiful song and dance.

June – August
--summer vacation—

September
Merced local Eve Delfin's dance group Danzantes de Merced graces the stage again with their beautiful costumes in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Join us as we travel throughout Mexico exploring the rich culture and learning dances from around Mexico.

October
Celebrate Arts and Humanities Month with a community stage, featuring vibrant local groups like HooDRoC, International Folk Dance, South Pacific Dance Company and many more. In honor of arts and humanities month, this event is free for all ages.

November
Long time children's performer and local favorite Cal Skyhawk will perform in celebration of Native American History month. A local favorite, Cal Skyhawk has been performing throughout California for more then 15 years at various schools, pow wows, and special events. Skyhawk's colorful and energetic performance is sure to enrapture children and adults alike, as he weaves Native American dance and storytelling into a program that encourages the values of self confidence, acceptance, and responsibility.

December - January
--Winter break--