MONROE — The Monroe Arts Center will open its 50th Anniversary Historic show honoring a strong volunteer base that emerged in the 1970s as the Old Methodist Church was threatened to be razed. Volunteerism has remained a central part of the Monroe community for five decades and this historic show documents those efforts and dedicated stewards of MAC. 

Beginning with the history of the Old Methodist Church, this show also highlights the architecture of E. Townsend Mix, who designed the Gothic Revival structure that MAC now has called its Gunderson Stiles Concert Hall for 47 consecutive seasons. Peg Stiles, the Monroe leader who dedicated her time to save the Old Methodist Church and create a community arts center is also a prominent feature of this culminating event during MAC’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Stile’s voice will be heard again in this interactive historic show that documents MAC’s strong presence as a home for the arts in southern Wisconsin. Join MAC at 5 p.m. on June 6 for the opening reception — all are welcome.