The “X” Main Street Corporation (XMSC), a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, was formed in 1995 to work towards the revitalization of Springfield’s Forest Park neighborhood and the “X” commercial district. The organization is made up of people from the neighborhood, area businesses, and non-profits. In 2002 the board of directors decided to adopt the strategy of arts accessibility to strengthen the community both culturally and economically. XMSC became the preferred developer for the former Bing Theater, which was taken by the City of Springfield in 1999 for non-payment of taxes. In December 2004 the organization purchased the property and began development efforts.
The first phase of the renovation process was completed in June 2010 when a certificate of occupancy permit was secured allowing full public use of the building’s front section as a community arts center. The facility is currently open on a part-time basis until adequate operational funding is in place. The Bing Arts Center project is managed by XMSC president and executive director, Brian F. Hale. Nate Ferreira serves as technical director and S. Do-Han Allen is the marketing director. XMSC is developing the project as a community resource. In addition to the regular cultural and educational programming offered, the organization publishes a monthly community newsletter, the Bing Bulletin, hosts meetings, and works to create collaborative partnerships with area businesses and other groups.
Board of Directors:
Although a bit unusual, I would like this note to get to Do-Han and ask him to contact me at the email listed.
Many thanks.
what a great idea! how do i get involved? i am new to the area, i just moved across the street from the bing art center I am a recent college graduate, with lots of experience in event planning and community service, I received my degree in social and behavior sciences while concentrating in communications media studies. please contact me via e-mail if there are any positions available at this time
Thanks for your interest Tommarrah. Welcome to the neighborhood. I staff the gallery on Sats. from 11 to 3. Stop over if you can so we can get acquainted. Movie screening Sat. at 7 p.m.