We're Building a Dance Studio

Lights Out re-envivons the second floor of their new building in Norway, Maine, transforming it into a contemporary dance studio for the community.

Since the Fall of 2022, we have been renovating the second floor of the historic factory building at 10 Tannery Street, Norway, Maine. When we first entered the space, despite its rough presentation, we knew it had potential. The room was filled with old rawhide, varnishing vats, and snowshoe forms – a few remnants of the building’s history as a snowshoe factory. The walls were merely a shell, as you walked around the room cracks of light would shine through from the outside. The tall ceilings, old hardwood floors, and many windows around the grand space filled us with hope. It was going to be a lift, but we knew we could do it. We started right away, making a plan to clean, insulate, and transform the space.

Who will benefit from this dance studio?

Soon after purchasing the building, we partnered with Creative Norway and the NAVEAH Dance Circus, recognizing their need and the communities need for a contemporary dance studio that could serve all ages and movement styles. With a strong vision for our first phase of renovations and the help of dozens of volunteers, paid professionals, and months of hard work, we are now close to a finished dance studio that will provide for a community of creatives for years to come.

“Creative Norway’s mission is to sponsor and support creative individuals and creative projects (financially, creatively, or both) regardless of what age the individual is, stage their project is in, or background they come from.”

Our Progress

Every day we get closer to a completed space. The walls have been insulated and drywalled, we have caulked, sealed and painted the original ceiling, insulated the attic, installed crown molding, and are in the process of painting and finishing trim around the room. A speaker system was donated to the space, and LRE Electric wired and installed emergency exit signs and new lights for the entire studio. The next steps include sanding and refinishing the original wood floors and building a fire escape on the far side of the building.

How can you help?

To ensure the completion the dance studio, we need your help. Become a Lights Out Member by signing up to make a monthly donation. With as little as $10, $25, or $50 a month you can help realize our vision and help us on our way with the next phases of renovating a new art center in Western Maine at 10 Tannery Street.

Visit our website to make a donation today!