Partnerships are our lifeblood
We have built relationships with many local artists and groups, and our engagement efforts are ongoing and always growing. We listen and learn as we work and grow, and our partners help us live our mission with sincerity and diligence. In our efforts to amplify the voices of artists representing historically marginalized communities & artists on the experimental fringes, we’ve connected in meaningful ways with dozens of 717-area arts groups & artists.
Additionally, we’re connected with companies and organizations with established venue space. We’re proud to have connected local artists to spaces at Harrisburg venues including:
Strawberry Square
Gamut Theatre
Open Stage
Midtown Cinema
Culture and Commerce
CASA (Capital Area School of the Arts Charter School)
The State Museum of Pennsylvania
Zeroday Brewing Co.
Historic Harrisburg Association
Narcisse Theatre
Grace United Methodist Church
OUR MISSION & COMMUNITY IS BIGGER THAN ANY LIST
We’re always open to new conversations. We like to listen and take notes. Most of our best ideas have come from conversations with others in the community already. As our coalition grows, so can our collective impact. We know there are many wonderful community organizations and leaders shining bright lights on our small city and throughout the 717 every day. We know artists are everywhere, artists are a vital part of all communities, and artists are passionate doers living their creative dreams. We see you, we love you, & we want to celebrate you all.
717 Arts
Board of Directors
Brad Barkdoll
Zachary Breach
Alexis Campbell
Robert Campbell
Brianna Dow
Maria Soyla Enriquez
Charles Hooker
Alexandra Johnson
Victoria Sexsmith
Sara Shaw
Moritza Termin
Crissy Wagner
Jude Yardsley
Thanks to former and founding board members:
Matthew Golden
L Kirkwood
Jeffrey Luttermoser
Thomas Weaver
Questions? Feedback? Challenges? Advice?
We’re here for your input and trying to reach out to everyone we can.
And we’re happy to listen.
Please reach out at any time. Conversations have built this organization so far.
The core of our work is all about relationships, mutual aid, and good faith partnerships with our community.
Startup Pledges: 2021 Fundraising Goal Met
As of 8.18.21 we have surpassed our first fundraising goal! Incorporation costs are now covered via pledged support, which also unlocks our matching pledge towards startup costs. Modest goals, but we’re excited to be on the right track.
717 Arts Officially Incorporated as a PA Nonprofit Organization
As of Feb. 2022 717 Arts is an official nonprofit in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Our federal EIN # is 87-4329599.
Allied Volunteer Coalition
One of our foundational mission-driven goals was to build a coalition of allied volunteers we can coordinate in support efforts for our programming and partnerships. Thanks to the HFF, we have!
Contact or message us via the Harrisburg Fringe Festival Volunteer page—we’ll get you added to our volunteer list!
Harrisburg Fringe Festival: a popular annual city event with local impact and national reach
As of July 2025, the Harrisburg Fringe Festival is in its third season. Hundreds of artists from all over the 717 and nationwide have come to perform their work and share their art in Harrisburg for thousands of adventurous audience members.
Want to donate and help us keep building the HBG Fringe?
Most 717 Arts fundraising from Sep. 2022 onward is put towards the budget of the HARRISBURG FRINGE FESTIVAL (donation information there).
Any amount is helpful. Help us “Do Something Weird!”