Our Stories

At your Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, the magic on stage naturally receives much of our patrons’ attention. But if you ask any regular attendee of their first impression upon visiting, they will tell you that the true heart of the Center is found in the aisles, at the doors, and in the lobby. Put simply, the heart of the Center can be found wearing a maroon vest.

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week (April 19-25), we are shining a spotlight on the incredible individuals who make every performance possible: our dedicated team of volunteers.

Impact by the Numbers

For 22 seasons, volunteers have been the first faces our community sees, providing the warm, professional welcome that defines the Fox Cities PAC experience. And the scope of their dedication really takes shape when you crunch the numbers:

• During this season, over 310 volunteers have contributed more than 18,500 hours to ensure our guests feel right at home.
• Since our doors first opened, our volunteers have donated over 630,000 hours – the equivalent of nearly 72 years of continuous, around-the-clock service.

A Warm Greeting with Every Visit

What makes our venue feel less like any old building and more like a community staple? It’s the people who greet you with a smile as you find your seat. Sam Schmalz, Patron Services Manager for the Center, sees this commitment firsthand every day. 

“We’re able to create unforgettable memories at the Center because of the army of volunteers who dedicate their time and talents here,” Sam explains. “They selflessly give of themselves to ensure every patron has a world-class experience.”

For many volunteers, that warmth is reflected back to them as well.

“It’s so much fun for me to watch patrons leave a show,” says volunteer Carolyn F. “If there’s a big dance number they may be dancing as they leave. And so many smiles. When a person smiles at you, you smile back. And here, it seems like everyone is always smiling.”

Recognizing our Volunteers

When you attend a performance or walk past the Center, take a moment to notice the volunteers in their vests. They are the engine behind our mission, the first smiling faces that many visitors see, and the reason this venue feels like a second home to so many.

And to all our volunteers: thank you. Your extra steps, your patience, and your radiant smiles turn nights of theater into lifetime memories. We are honored to have you as the face of your Fox Cities Performing Arts Center.