Mon Valley Performing Arts Academy plans permanent arts facility in California

The Mon Valley Performing Arts Academy has announced plans to secure a permanent, turn-key facility in the heart of California Borough.

The proposed space will serve as the new home for MVPAA’s growing slate of performing arts programming and will also become the region’s first Community Hub for families throughout the Mon Valley.

MVPAA currently serves students in Washington, Greene, Fayette and Westmoreland counties, offering affordable voice, acting and dance instruction, summer camp’s and performance opportunities.

According to the organization, tuition covers only about 30% of the actual cost of programming, with the rest subsidized through community fundraising and reinvested into student opportunities.

“For years, our dream has been to give back—and give better—to our community through the performing arts,” said Michele Pagen, artistic director of MVPAA. “This permanent home would make that dream a reality. It’s more than a building—it’s a chance to create a place where young people can thrive in the arts while families also find the resources and support they need.”

While MVPAA has operated classes and camps in partnership with PennWest University’s Theatre Department, a dedicated facility would allow for expanded instruction space, rehearsal areas, and new partnerships with community organizations. Plans for the Community Hub include free WiFi and study space for students without reliable internet access, food and goods distribution for families in need, and collaborations with local social service providers.

Community members, businesses, and arts supporters are invited to help support the campaign. More information is available at https://givebutter.com/MVPAAOpenTheDoor, or by contacting info@mvpaa.com.