The Cultural Arts Center of Frederick County is operated by the Frederick Arts Council and is one of the busiest arts facilities in the frederick area. Purchased by the arts council in 1998, the building is the former McCrory’s five and dime store. With its unique L-shape, the old five and dime store, allowed shoppers to enter on Patrick Street, eat at the diner, and leave on Market Street, which is now the Gallery entrance.

The main entrance of the CAC is located at 15 West Patrick Street in historic downtown Frederick and is in the heart of the theater district for downtown Frederick, across from the Weinberg Center for the Arts and next door to the Maryland Ensemble Theatre located in the lower level of the FSK Hotel. The CAC is also within blocks from Carroll Creek Linear Park, Baker Park, Culler Lake, City and County Government Buildings, and several unique dining and shopping establishments. Off-street parking is available all around the facility and three parking facilities are conveniently located within blocks.

Just inside the Patrick Street door you will find an office complex that holds the Frederick Arts Council and Cultural Arts Center offices as well as offices for non-profit arts organizations. Beyond the office hallway, you find a Black Box Theatre which is in high demand because of its versatility, intimacy, and relatively low cost. Old diner booths are put to good use as actors’ makeup stations. Turning towards Market Street at the “L” corner, you will enter the Event Hall which at various times of the day, week, or month is configured as reception space, rehearsal room, or even a backstage area for the theater. Heading on out towards Market Street, you will pass through the Market Street Gallery which features emerging visual artists with monthly rotating exhibits.

The facility has served as an arts incubator since its inception, originally housing the Maryland Ensemble Theatre. Many other arts organizations have started at the facility, either using it has its home base for performances or maintaining office space at low costs. Other services are provided, including a shared conference room, mail service, and copy room. Training and technical assistance is also provided by the Frederick Arts Council for start-up and existing nonprofit arts organizations.

If you would like a tour or have interest in renting space in the Cultural Arts Center of Frederick County, please contact the facility manager at 301-662-4190 or via e-mail jdobbins@FrederickArtsCouncil.org.