Duck Creek Center for the Arts

Your generosity unleashes creative forces that embolden individuals and strengthen communities.

When the Elwood Opera House first opened in 1891, it was unknown the impact the space would still be having over 130 years later. Duck Creek Center for the Arts purchased the historic building early in 2024 and is working to continue the tradition of offering quality productions and artistic training for individuals in the region. Bill Smith, Executive Director for Duck Creek Center for the Arts, is a visionary leader who cares deeply about the transformative power of the Arts.

“You can’t really measure quantitatively the success that this has in the lives of the kids,” Smith says, as he recounts a recent conversation with the actors in the latest production. Smith has a practice of having the actors sit in a circle and share how theatre has impacted them. He says that there are regular comments about being released from social anxiety, including feelings of embarrassment and intimidation. There have also been kids who, through their own testimony, shared that they have had suicidal thoughts. Through participation in theatre, they found community and confidence that infused new joy and purpose for life.

Duck Creek Center for the Arts not only puts on multiple productions each year, they also recently opened The Academy. The Academy offers private music lessons, a children’s choir, knitting classes, art classes, acting classes, and ballet. Duck Creek is committed to removing financial barriers so that these classes are available to all.

Grants, such as the Community Impact Grant provided by the Madison County Community Foundation, contribute to the outreach to the community and youth through productions and visual and performing arts education.  

The community of Elwood is responding to the restoration of the Opera House; classes are at capacity and shows are often sold out. On production nights, the usually quiet downtown streets are buzzing with activity. The potential for growth is exponential, but it will require continued support through sponsorships, donations, and grants.

Consider giving to the Impact Madison Fund to help us continue to meet emerging local needs. Every gift, large and small, contributes to the mission of Madison County Community Foundation to increase the quality of life for the citizens of Madison County through supporting organizations such as Duck Creek Center for the Arts. All donations to this fund will be tripled. Your generosity truly does make a difference in our community.

Learn more about Duck Creek Center for the Arts and how to become involved.