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!”