Strathmore

Strathmore is a cultural institution located in North Bethesda, Maryland, serving the Washington, DC region and the state of Maryland with a wide array of artistic experiences. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Strathmore is dedicated to presenting a diverse range of events and fostering a vibrant arts community. The organization's mission extends beyond performances, positioning itself as a venue for discovery and a canvas for expression. ===History=== Strathmore's history begins with the Mansion at Strathmore, built in 1899 as a grand summer estate. Over the years, the Mansion has transformed into a spirited center for the arts. The land on which Strathmore stands has a rich history, dating back to 1694 when it was granted to Thomas Brooke, Jr. by Lord Baltimore. The property changed hands several times, becoming a notable summer home near Washington after its purchase by Captain James Frederick Oyster and his wife Emma in 1899. The Oysters' residence was designed in the Colonial Revival style by architect Appleton P. Clark, Jr. The Mansion's next prominent owners were Charles and Hattie Corby, who acquired it in 1908. They made significant modifications, including a Georgian façade, and expanded the estate to encompass over 2,500 acres. The Corby family's tenure lasted until 1941, after which the Mansion served various purposes including a war center during World War II, a convent, and a school. In 1979, Montgomery County acquired the Mansion and established Strathmore as the county's first center for the arts. The Mansion officially opened to the public in 1983 after extensive restoration. Since then, Strathmore has continued to grow, adding new venues and expanding its programming. ===Venues=== Strathmore's campus includes several distinct venues: * '''The Mansion''': Hosting intimate concerts, art exhibitions, and special events, the Mansion is also known for its Afternoon Tea and is a sought-after wedding venue. * '''The Music Center''': Opened in 2005, this state-of-the-art facility features a 1,976-seat concert hall and is home to several prestigious arts partners. * '''AMP by Strathmore''': A 230-seat cabaret-style venue that opened in 2015, offering a more intimate setting for performances. * '''Education Center''': A hub for arts education and community programs. * '''Campus & Outdoor''': Including landscaped grounds and a sculpture garden. ===Programs and Community Engagement=== Strathmore presents a broad range of events, including music, dance, theater, and visual arts. The organization is also committed to arts education and community engagement through initiatives like: * '''Bloom''': Bringing arts experiences to schools, community centers, and public spaces. * '''Artist in Residence Program''': Supporting local artists' development. * '''Youth Orchestras and Children's Chorus''': Offering music education to young performers. ===Inclusion and Equity=== Strathmore has made a commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access (I.D.E.A.) with the goal of becoming an antiracist institution. The organization actively works to eliminate bias, reject stereotypes, and de-racialize behavior to ensure a welcoming environment for all. ===Support and Funding=== As a nonprofit, Strathmore relies on the generosity of its community and offers various ways for individuals to contribute, including memberships, donations, and volunteer opportunities. The institution has received recognition for its financial transparency and stewardship from major charity evaluators. ==External Links== * [https://www.strathmore.org/ Official website] * [https://www.strathmore.org/about-us/mission-values/ Strathmore's Mission & Values] * [https://www.strathmore.org/about-us/mansion-history/ History of The Mansion at Strathmore] [[Category:Arts organizations]] [[Category:Non-profit organizations in the United States]] [[Category:Music venues in Maryland]] [[Category:Performing arts centers in Maryland]] [[Category:Education in Montgomery County, Maryland]]