Fort Hill Performing Arts Center to Welcome National Theatre Historical Society Tour and Receive Distinguished Theatre Recognition
Canandaigua, NY - June 9, 2026 - Fort Hill Performing Arts Center is proud to announce that it will host members of the Theatre Historical Society of America (THS) on Friday, June 26, as part of the organization's 2026 Conclave tour of historic and notable theaters throughout Western and Central New York and the Finger Lakes region.
More than 50 theater enthusiasts from across the United States and the United Kingdom will visit Fort Hill Performing Arts Center during the organization's week-long exploration of some of New York State's most treasured performing arts venues. The group will tour the facility, participate in a meeting and luncheon, and learn about Fort Hill's role as a cultural cornerstone in the Finger Lakes region.
As part of the visit, Theatre Historical Society of America President, Gary Parks of Menlo Park, California, will present Fort Hill Performing Arts Center with a certificate and commemorative decal recognizing the venue as a Distinguished Theatre, an honor bestowed upon select theaters that demonstrate exceptional contributions to preserving and promoting the theatrical experience.
"We are honored to welcome the Theatre Historical Society of America to Fort Hill and to be recognized as a Distinguished Theatre," said Gordon Estey, Fort Hill Performing Arts Center Board President. "This designation reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, donors, and community members who have helped make Fort Hill a vibrant home for the performing arts in the Finger Lakes."
Founded in 1969, the Theatre Historical Society of America is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, documenting, and celebrating the architectural, cultural, and social significance of historic theaters throughout North America. Its annual Conclave brings together theater historians, preservationists, and enthusiasts for behind-the-scenes tours and educational programming at notable venues.
Fort Hill Performing Arts Center is one of 20 theaters included on the 2026 Conclave itinerary, joining iconic venues such as Shea's Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, the Smith Opera House in Geneva, the Stanley Theatre in Utica, and the Landmark Theatre in Syracuse.
The visit will bring theater enthusiasts from across the United States and the United Kingdom to Canandaigua, offering an opportunity to showcase both the Finger Lakes region and Fort Hill Performing Arts Center's role as a destination for arts and culture.
For more information on the full tour please visit the Theatre Historical Society’s website: www.historictheatres.org/conclave/
