An Inside Look with KSMQ at The ARC: Home of the Historic Masonic Theatre
Welcome to The ARC — Winona’s oldest & newest hub for the arts
A vibrant new chapter of Winona culture is now on full display with the opening of The ARC: Home of the Historic Masonic Theatre — a beautifully restored landmark that brings arts, recreation, and culture together under one roof. Once known simply as the Masonic Temple, this iconic building has been thoughtfully transformed into The ARC, a multi-use community venue located in the heart of downtown Winona at Main and 5th Street. From its early 20th-century origins as a Masonic temple and performance hall to its rebirth as a modern cultural hub, The ARC retains its historic charm while embracing contemporary programming that appeals to diverse audiences.
In a youtube feature, KSMQ Public Television offers a first look at this exciting space and teases what visitors can expect when they make The ARC a destination on their next trip to southeastern Minnesota. As the managing organization for this unique venue, Great River Shakespeare Festival staff share some history and insight about this delightful space. For Eileen Moeller, Director of Operations, one of the most exciting parts of operating this space involves the collaboration with other Winona organizations. These resident organizations currently include: Frozen River Film Festival, River City Dancers, and Theatre du Mississippi. Managing Director Aaron Young shares some ideas and imaginings of what the space could look like in the coming years with the right support and funding from the community; “We want to create some some lobbies, access to restrooms, and then take the first floor and make that a multi-use space as a second performance space. There are so many things that are just really starting. We’re so honored to have the opportunity and to have the public be excited about it as well.”
As The ARC continues to come to life, visitors and locals alike are invited to step inside, experience its history, and be part of Winona’s growing arts scene.