Community Impact

As a nonprofit arts leader invested in the continued development of the City of Albany as a strong, vibrant and healthy community, the Palace is committed to expanding opportunities to improve the lives of some of the most vulnerable people residing in Albany’s blighted and underserved neighborhoods, and ensure that performing arts experiences are accessible to all members of our community.

The Palace Performing Arts Center is committed to the growth of diverse programming, community partnerships and collaborations, and more importantly, to provide a community center for downtown Albany.

“Summer in the City” Movie Series: Eight FREE, family-friendly movies are offered to more than 6,000 children and families from neighborhoods in and around the Palace Theatre, with targeted outreach to low-income and underserved families in the City of Albany, and its surrounding communities.

The movie series provides children with the opportunity to enjoy the excitement and beauty of the historic Palace Theatre while offering fun, safe and positive opportunities to become engaged in the arts. The theatre opens one hour prior to the showtime to engage the community in educational experiences and beat the summer heat. Special events around these movies include an ice cream social to close the series!
Classic Movie Series: The Palace proudly maintains its dedication to the silver screen by sharing both classic and modern film favorites on the Palace Theatre’s Big Screen. Featuring vintage trailers and offering low-cost tickets, more than 8,000 guests join us for the Classic Movie Series annually.
Albany Symphony Orchestra: The Grammy Award-winning Albany Symphony calls the Palace home, performing a number of classical and family concerts in our historic theatre each season. PPAC and the ASO collaborate to make both organizations more successful and sustainable. Learn more about the Albany Symphony at www.albanysymphony.com.
Arts Education: Thousands of local students will benefit from exposure to arts education activities that foster their social and emotional development, self-expression, and creativity. We regularly present and host educational productions throughout the school year.
Black History Month: The Palace recognizes the contributions of African Americans in history and the importance of diversity in our everyday lives. During the month of February, we partner with various organizations to celebrate culture and tradition with our Black History Series including film, performing arts, and community events.
Family Fun Days: Families are invited to come to the Palace to enjoy a low-cost movie with their children during school breaks and around other special occassions. One hour before show time, children can enjoy a host of games and activities in the beautiful Palace Theatre lobby.
Community Events: The Palace opens its doors for local non-profits, businesses and major corporations, community groups, civic organizations, and public authorities to hold fundraisers, celebrations, and awareness events throughout each season.