THOMASTON — Get ready to dance the night away at the Watts Hall Band Dance Party on Friday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m., at Watts Hall, 174 Main Street in Thomaston. This high-energy event features live music from the Watts Hall Band, known for their electrifying performances of rock, blues, and R&B hits, according to a news release. 

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door (if available), "but be sure to buy your tickets early as these dance parties frequently sell out," said the release.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://wattshallcommunityarts.thundertix.com/events/235936.

This dance party will also serve as the official launch of the public-facing portion of Watts Hall Community Arts’ Capital Campaign, a $1 million effort aimed at making vital improvements to the historic Watts Block building. So far, the campaign has raised $753,220, with $300,000 secured through a federal grant thanks to the efforts of the Watts Hall Community Players, and another $300,000 from the Dragon Cement TIF, approved by Thomaston voters. Additional funds have been raised through foundation, corporate, and individual gifts.

Key improvements to the building will include the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps, essential safety upgrades like a new fire alarm system and fire stair, and the addition of more bathrooms and a full catering kitchen. The building’s lobby will also undergo a makeover, generously sponsored by First National Bank, while the exterior is receiving much-needed masonry work, set for completion soon. All upgrades will preserve the historical integrity of this beloved structure.

Built in 1890 by Captain Samuel Watts and gifted to the Town of Thomaston, the Watts Block building holds a special place in the town’s history. After a devastating fire in 1915, the building was rebuilt and reopened in 1916. Today, the first floor houses five retail businesses, while the second floor is home to Watts Hall, a performing arts and community space managed by the nonprofit Watts Hall Community Arts.

This dance party is not a fundraising event, but a celebration of the campaign’s success so far and an opportunity for the public to learn more about the work being done to preserve the past, serve the present, and ensure the future of the Watts Block building.

For more information about the Watts Hall Band Dance Party and the Capital Campaign, visit wattshallthomaston.com or contact Watts Hall Community Arts at wattshallcommunityarts@gmail.com.
 

About Watts Hall Community Arts

Watts Hall Community Arts is dedicated to fostering creativity and community through the arts. Located in the heart of Thomaston, Maine, Watts Hall serves as a cultural hub, offering a variety of programs and events for people of all ages.