DOWNING-GROSS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

The Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center is a project about Neighborhood Rejuvenation. PMA worked closely with a City Council appointed task force to develop a compelling renovation and active-reuse for this abandoned 1917 high school in the southeast community of Newport News. The project created a 276-seat performance theatre, a banquet facility, and a series of public meeting rooms along with the Office of Human Affairs, the Anderson Johnson Gallery, a changing exhibit gallery, and spaces for art and dance.

An Interview With the Executive Director

PMA went back to visit the Downing Gross Cultural Arts Center in 2022 and sat down with the center's long-time Executive Director, Michelle Gilliam, to learn about the impact the project has had on the community over the years.

2022 Project Update Video

(Narrated by Michelle Gilliam, Executive Director)