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Mission Statement

The mission of Garrett Lakes Arts Festival is to present a repertoire of high-quality arts performances and arts education that is accessible to and suitable for a diverse audience.

Specific Goals:

• To expand audience appreciation and understanding of the arts, by introducing a diversified repertoire of affordable performing arts; and when possible, supplement performances with workshops and opportunities to meet
  with the artists; and
• To support the educational enrichment of children through exposure to the arts through performances and seminars in the schools and by providing opportunities for young people to showcase their own artistic talent; and
• To preserve and perpetuate cultural performances that emphasize our rich mountain heritage as well as the artistic traditions of other cultures.

By meeting the above mission and goals, Garrett Lakes Arts Festival will support regional economic development by providing high quality arts presentations as a supplemental tourism attraction.
 
History

In 2008, Garrett Lakes Arts Festival celebrates its 22nd Anniversary season of presenting the performing arts for our local community. GLAF serves Garrett County, Maryland, and the surrounding tri-state region.

Several relationships were instrumental in making GLAF possible. Garrett Lakes Arts Festival began with a vision of a music festival in Garrett County. This vision was that of Garrett countian, Kathryn Sincell-Corwell and musician Erick Friedman. In December, 1986, a small group gathered to explore the Sincell/Friedman proposal, to promote cultural and arts life in Garrett County, and to rekindle the Mountain Chautauqua spirit, once a hallmark of Garrett County life. A core group of 22 citizens evolved from the originators, most of whom remained in leadership roles within the organization. The core group has served with great dedication and distinction and are responsible for GLAF's achievements.

The Garrett County Arts Council (GCAC) has been a major source of funding. Additional support comes from the Maryland State Arts Council (MASC), an agency funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, and from individuals and businesses in the local community. During the formative years of the organization, Garrett College acted as a major sponsoring agent, enabling GLAF to obtain grant funding through the MSAC and the Maryland Humanities Council, providing GLAF with an administrative support system and offering modest but affordable facilities.

In the fall of 1988, Garrett Lakes Arts Festival established its own corporate identity in the State of Maryland. A seven-member Board of Directors was elected. Today a sixteen-member board donates their time and expertise to govern the organization. Each year more than 75 volunteers contribute to the success of the season. The increased audience support is a good indicator of the acceptance of GLAF by the community and its visitors.

In 1992, the board decided to establish the position of Executive Director. Currently this position is held by Charles C. Case. Matt Eary is the new Technical Director, and is responsible for all lighting, sound and set construction for GLAF events. Benjamin Sincell, the Technical Director Emeritus, served as the TD from 1990 to 2007. Mr. Sincell is a Professor of Theatre at Garrett College.

Exciting developments are on the horizon for the performing arts in Garrett County! GLAF continues to offer high-quality artistic performances in a variety of genre. Our organization feels strongly that the quality of life in a community is enriched by its involvement in and support of the arts.

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