By Audrey Poff, Photography by Melissa Donner

The Foundation of Arts is now offering Stage, Too Weekends in an effort to bring more arts and entertainment options to Downtown Jonesboro this summer.

Located 330 S. Main St. near The Forum Theatre in Downtown Jonesboro, Stage, Too has served a variety of purposes for The Foundation of Arts over the years. From receptions hosted by The FOA staff to smaller theater productions performed in a black box setting, the venue is an open space that can easily be configured for entertainment purposes or private events.

Stephanie Epps, The Foundation of Arts’ executive director, said she is excited about the new collaborative effort.

“Stage, Too weekends bring an opportunity to learn new things, have fun, support local artists and businesses, and relax with people you might not have an avenue to meet otherwise,” said Epps. “We’re hopeful it will encourage patronization of our wonderful downtown businesses and increase a sense of community in Jonesboro.”

Joe Carr, creative director for The FOA, helped with the renovation of the building.
“We bought new sound equipment, prepared a bar space, added new furnishings, and a new stage and sound equipment,” said Carr, who estimates the venue can seat 65 people.

The FOA has contracted with Brian Nobles, who owns and operates The Rec Room in Downtown Jonesboro with his wife, Sarah, to provide alcohol at the venue. On behalf of The Arts Annex Inc., Brian Nobles applied for and was granted a permit, allowing the sale of alcohol during events at Stage, Too.
Stage, Too Weekends began in May and will include live music, workshops, game nights and more on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

“Stage, Too offers a unique experience, combining entertainment and a cozy, relaxing atmosphere,” according to The Foundation of Arts website. “Stage, Too hours of operation will be Thursday through Saturday (evenings) from 6-10 to allow for Forum patrons and downtowners to take full advantage of the Downtown Entertainment District.”

Organizers say the venue is perfect for a date night or a friends’ night out with food and drink options available for purchase. Outside of holidays, each weekend will follow the same schedule and set-up, consisting of the following:

Game Night Thursdays (FREE ADMISSION)at 7 p.m.

Grab a group of friends and join the fun with a variety of rotating crowd-pleasing games including Singo Bingo and trivia.

Acoustic Fridays (FREE ADMISSION) at 7 p.m.

Kick back and unwind on Fridays to some soothing music with friends in our relaxing space.

Wild Card Saturday (FREE ADMISSION, minus workshops) at 7 p.m.

Saturdays will follow a pattern and The FOA will post each month’s line-up and pricing ahead, so patrons know what to expect.

First Saturday:  Workshops that will include a variety of fun classes. Pricing varies.
Second Satuday:  Mic Drop (karaoke, open mic, etc., rotating), free.

Third Satuday:  Word Play Cafe (exploring and showcasing the written and spoken word), free.

Fourth Satuday:  Flashback Flicks sponsored by Lost Pizza (showing a wide array of throwback movies ranging all decades), free.

To find out more about Stage, Too Weekends, visit foajonesboro.org or call the FOA box office at (870) 935-2726.