Three Arizona-based organizations have announced a significant collaboration to preserve a historic church and expand cultural amenities in the Central Phoenix Arts Corridor. The Desert Southwest Conference of The United Methodist Church, Phoenix Art Museum, and Phoenix Theatre Company are entering into a 99-year lease agreement for the Central United Methodist Church property at 1875 North Central Avenue in Phoenix.
The partnership aims to maintain the church’s historical significance while providing opportunities for expanded parking and cultural offerings on the campus shared by the Theatre Company and Museum. Gensler has been engaged to create a strategic vision for the future of this cultural hub.
Vincent VanVleet, executive director of Phoenix Theatre Company, remarked on the lease’s potential impact: “The planned lease creates a foundation for generational impact, allowing for programming, performance, education, and public engagement that will uplift the spirits of creativity and inclusivity for decades to come.” He emphasized that it solidifies their collective vision for a collaborative arts campus that respects the site’s legacy while fostering new creative opportunities.
Jeremy Mikolajczak, Sybil Harrington Director and CEO of Phoenix Art Museum, commented on the partnership’s significance: “This extraordinary partnership allows us to shape a cultural ecosystem where art, performance, and the city’s spiritual heritage intersect.” He highlighted how collaboration is crucial to sustaining and enriching Phoenix’s cultural landscape.
Central United Methodist Church has been an integral part of Phoenix’s Civic Center area since its establishment in its current location in 1950. The Civic Center includes landmarks like Phoenix Theatre Company—founded as Phoenix Little Theatre—and Phoenix Art Museum. The church ceased its services in 2024 following a vote by the Desert Southwest Annual Conference. This collaboration represents efforts to preserve its rich heritage while continuing to benefit the community.
Rev. Rachel Gilmore from Desert Southwest Conference expressed optimism about what this partnership represents: “This partnership is a reflection of what’s possible when faith, arts, and community come together,” she said. It honors both past legacies and envisions future possibilities as a gathering place.
Desert Southwest Conference serves communities across Arizona and southern Nevada through various ministries. Phoenix Art Museum offers access to world-class art with over 20,000 works across diverse collections. Founded in 1920, Phoenix Theatre Company is Arizona’s oldest arts organization known for its extensive annual performances.
More details about future plans for this collaboration will be communicated in upcoming months.
