DEPLOYING THE ARTS TO MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE

The Bushnell believes everyone has the right to access and be inspired by our music, literature, theatre, dance, educational, and civic programming, offerings that so meaningfully illuminate and enhance our collective, individual, and community experiences. Corporate and Foundation support is indispensable to our long-standing mission to provide this access and inspiration to as many citizens of the region as possible through a variety of both historic and nimble new initiatives.

Arts-Integrated Education

For over 20 years, PARTNERS®, The Bushnell’s arts-in-education program, has provided a variety of curricular-based arts activities and experiences to thousands of students to help improve literacy and intercultural competencies. This program is offered free-of-charge to most schools, families and community organizations we serve, underwritten by the philanthropic support from funders who are committed to investing in the future of our youth.

Access for All

Established in 1979, The Bushnell’s Passport to the Arts Fund ensures all individuals—especially those whose opportunities to experience the arts are limited by socioeconomic factors, physical or other disabilities—can participate in richly diverse and personally relevant arts experiences and programs. Through donor generosity, the fund allows The Bushnell to distribute free or deeply reduced tickets to key community groups and cultural organizations.

Community Engagement

On and off stage, The Bushnell is fully committed to making the arts a vital part of the community and the daily lives of the people we serve. We foster communal engagement through arts-based free events like Family Fun Day, block parties, and in-school activities—bridging generations, languages, and economic backgrounds to unite Connecticut’s diverse communities.

A Vibrant Neighborhood

The Bushnell believes in the role of arts organizations as placemakers, and works with partners from public, private, non-profit, and community sectors to reshape the physical and social character of Hartford, developing a plan that animates public and private spaces, rejuvenates streetscapes, and improves local business viability and public safety. Our vision imagines a green, vibrant, and walkable neighborhood replete with hundreds of new residences, cafés, restaurants, art venues and a variety of arts-related businesses.