Page 18 - 2025 Van Buren Chamber Community Profile

QUALITY OF PLACE

opportunities for shows and performances hosted everyone from local musicians to River Valley. In operation since 1947,
in the art district. national recording artists. VBFAC offers the Fort Smith Little Theatre utilizes
“We have put together a season of diverse programming, including children’s local actors, producers, and other play
local, regional, and national shows that will productions, and serves as the venue for participants to put on a wide-range of
give our community a chance to continue area concerts, dance competitions and comedies, dramas, and musicals each year.
to enjoy the King Opera House,” said Bill other contests. Van Buren Public Library
Ratcliff, who manages the venue. The Van Buren School District utilizes One of the most recognizable and
A variety of theater groups and musical the facility year-round for hosting student
acts are set to perform at KOH throughout plays, concerts, and other events. VBSD most frequented city facilities is the
the season. “We are trying to have a programs, including choir, band, and beautiful Van Buren Public Library. The
good blend of local and touring shows drama, give members at all grade levels largest branch in the Crawford County
throughout the year, and feel like this is a the opportunity to perform on the Library System, the facility serves as a
great way to showcase our downtown and professional-level stage. valuable resource to residents throughout
Arts on Main, as well as providing a place Regional Art Attractions the area. Residents, students and
for family entertainment,” Ratcliff added. Van Buren’s art institutions are employees working in Crawford County
King Opera House is also available supported by the presence of other area are eligible for a free library card.
for private events including weddings, museums and performance halls. The Patrons have access to thousands
reunions, meetings, and more. The theater Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM) of print books and eBooks, audio, and
can seat up to 315 people, with full stage frequently welcomes nationally-traveled eAudio books, DVDs, magazines and
lighting and sound system available. For exhibitions and hosts interactive learning eMagazines, and many other tools at no
rental or show information, visit www. opportunities for aspiring artists. Just cost. VIsitors can also utilize the library’s
KingOperaHouse.com or call (479) 474- an hour away is the renowned Crystal many computers for work or personal
7767. business.
Bridges Museum in Bentonville. The
Van Buren Fine Arts Center brainchild of Walmart heir Alice Walton, The library is a popular spot for visitors
Residents can experience live shows the exquisite museum houses priceless of all ages, with special classes and events
and award-winning performances thanks pieces of art in its permanent collection, tailored to the youngest up to the most
to the wonderful programming of the Van and hosts temporary exhibits from all over experienced of readers. Each week, staff
Buren Fine Arts Center (VBFAC). Located the country. Visitors flock to the unique facilitate story and craft times for infants,
on the campus of Van Buren High School, museum, which is housed on 120 acres of toddlers, and preschoolers. Older children
VBFAC exists “to promote art education native Ozark forest. and youth can take part in reading clubs
for the students of the Van Buren School Music lovers benefit from having one and learning incentive programs which
District (VBSD) by providing a safe, of the state’s longest-running symphonies keep them engaged during the summer
technically proficient venue.” The center is in the area. For more than 90 years, the and other times throughout the year.
home to a nearly 1,500-seat concert hall, Fort Smith Symphony has hosted diverse Homeschool parents can take part in
which includes professional lighting and a concert seasons featuring vocalists and the Homeschool Club, which meets weekly
professional sound system. It draws many instrumentalists from around the world. during the school year. Programs for teens
major musical acts and theater productions Arkansas’ oldest continuously-operating
from across the country. The stage has community theater is also located in the Continued on page 20

18 Van Buren Chamber 2025 Community Profile vanburenchamber.org