Great stories
SETTING THE STAGE FOR
GREAT STORIES
As a cultural center of learning, the Norton Center’s curatorial vision is rooted in sharing diverse stories that entertain, encourage and connect communities. It’s what we do.
We foster inclusivity and access to the arts by bringing you acclaimed performers with dynamic stories to tell. Through these compelling stories we discover how surprisingly similar we are to one another, creating a place where we all belong and connecting entire communities through the arts.

“We Were Here”: Sleettown
In February of 1864, the United States Colored Troops began enlisting free and enslaved African Americans, despite opposition from some…
Dominic Cheli: Connecting with the community beyond the stage
Before pianist Dominic Cheli took to the Weisiger stage last Friday, he was dining with Centre athletes, presenting to local…
Student Spotlight: Katie Nipper
Unique live performances and valuable work experience combine for Norton Center House Manager Katie Nipper. Hailing from Johnson City, Tennessee,…
Student Spotlight: Piper Madison
From Louisville to Los Angeles to Danville, Piper Madison is making her mark on the music world. Centre student Piper…
Student Spotlight: Rachel Matherly
Growing up, Rachel Matherly’s mother would take her daughter to see concerts, performances, and broadway shows. These beloved memories fostered…
Student Spotlight: Kevin Sivakumar
During his freshman year of high school, Kevin Sivakumar borrowed his father’s camera and began to shoot. Seven years later,…