SML Center Moves Forward with Bold Vision

The Smith Mountain Lake community is invited to help raise an additional $750,000 for renovations and become part of the Center’s Founders Circle.

The Smith Mountain Lake Center has signed a contract with The Willard Companies to purchase the Westlake Cinema building, bringing a long-envisioned community hub one major step closer to reality. The sale is expected to close by Nov. 15.

The Center has received more than $3 million in gifts and commitments toward the purchase, renovation and future operation of the facility. Now, the nonprofit is inviting the broader community to help raise another $750,000 to fund the next phase of the project.

Donors who make a qualifying gift or sign a pledge of $2,500 or more by Nov. 20 will be recognized as Founding Members of the Smith Mountain Lake Center through its Founders Circle.

Learn more or make a donation at SMLCenter.org.

A Familiar Cinema with a New Community Mission

The plan is designed to preserve what people already love about Westlake Cinema while expanding its role as a destination for arts, education and community connection.

“We are tremendously grateful to the donors whose generosity and confidence in this vision have brought us to this point,” said Jack Phillips, president of the Smith Mountain Lake Center Board of Directors. “Now we’re inviting the entire community to be part of what comes next. Reaching this final $750,000 goal will help us make the renovations that will allow the Center to serve Smith Mountain Lake in so many new ways.”

Ron Willard II of The Willard Companies said he was especially pleased that the Center plans to continue showing first- and second-run movies.

“The Smith Mountain Lake Center’s vision preserves what people already love about the cinema while opening the door to so many new opportunities,” he said.

The building’s location near shops, businesses and restaurants, along with its existing lighted parking, restrooms, projection and sound equipment, and theater seating, makes it a practical foundation for the Center’s plans.

The long-term vision includes continuing regular movie showings while introducing educational programs, live performances, meetings, celebrations and other community events.

A Vision More Than 25 Years in the Making

The dream of a community center serving the Smith Mountain Lake region dates back more than 25 years. The late Don Fink, a longtime lake advocate and visionary, imagined a place where residents and visitors could gather to learn, celebrate, connect and enjoy concerts, stage productions and other events.

The Westlake Cinema building now offers an opportunity to bring that vision to life.

Movies will remain an important part of the Center’s future. Following the purchase, the organization plans to continue showing first- and second-run films, along with classic movies and special film programming. Renovations will be completed gradually, allowing the facility to evolve into a multipurpose venue.

“With thoughtful renovations, it can continue serving moviegoers while also welcoming concerts, performances, classes, meetings and community celebrations,” said Trish England, architect and board member.

Planned uses for the renovated spaces include youth and adult education, stage productions, lectures, concerts, business functions, receptions and a Community Connections lounge.

Live Theater Is Building Momentum

The Center’s two most recent theatrical productions, The Addams Family and Bonnie & Clyde, both played to sold-out audiences, reflecting growing community enthusiasm for live theater.

The next production, Zombie Prom, is scheduled for Oct. 22 through Nov. 1 in Theater 2. Board member and artistic director Matt Karris will direct the show.

Additional details, including audition and ticket information, will be announced through the Smith Mountain Lake Center and Center Rep, formerly known as the Lake Players.

Help Shape the Center’s Next Chapter

Purchasing the building is an important first step. The Center’s long-term renovation plans will be carried out in phases, with the immediate campaign focused on raising an additional $750,000 from the community.

“Gifts of every size will help move this vision forward,” Phillips said. “This is an opportunity for people throughout the Smith Mountain Lake community to help shape what this Center becomes and be part of bringing it to life.”

Whether through a financial contribution, a qualifying Founders Circle commitment or participation in future programs and events, community support will help determine what the Center can offer for generations to come.

Get involved and support the campaign:

Visit SMLCenter.org for more information and a convenient donation option.

Checks may be mailed to:

The Smith Mountain Lake Center
P.O. Box 786
Moneta, VA 24121