The Northport Performing Arts Center (NPAC) is celebrating its 25th anniversary this month — an observance that recognizes how the community came together more than two decades ago to create a place that continues to make a positive impact to this day.
Formerly known as the Northport Community Arts Center, the auditorium was pursued to fill the need for a large center or theater in town, which was non-existent before it was created. In the fall of 1999, voters passed a $5 million bond for school improvements that included additions like a gym, six additional classrooms, and an updated science lab. The construction project at the school was the impetus for community leaders to launch a campaign to raise over $1 million for a community arts center, and the Leelanau Township Community Foundation (LTCF) led the capital campaign for the private contributions.
The funds needed were raised in just a matter of months, and LTCF was able to present a check for $1 million to the Northport School board in October 2001 to build the facility. These donations were made by many individuals and families in the area, some of whom still reside in the community today. Donations were made in memory of loved ones, and numerous donors dedicated their gifts to finance the construction of practice rooms, the art, sound, and band rooms. Evident on the arms of auditorium seats and various rooms are the names of some of these donors as well.
