Colorful flags fly from the turrets of the renovated Pawtucket Armory welcoming visitors to the vibrant regional arts and arts education center that is The Arts Exchange. The new Arts Exchange is so much more than a restored state treasure; it is southeast New England’s primary arts destination for people of all ages, backgrounds and interests. Everyone knows it is the place to go for the best in professional performance or arts education.

The Jacqueline M. Walsh School for the Performing and Visual Arts, an integral part of the Pawtucket public school system, draws the most talented, aspiring young artists, dancers, musicians and actors from across the state and region. Classes, rehearsals and recitals for the community continue into the evening involving faculty and students from the school as well as artist/educators from the arts organizations affiliated with The Arts Exchange.

The combined mission of excellent artistic presentation and education is embraced by the artists, educators, and arts organizations that make up The Arts Exchange. All of the artists in residence make a commitment to education as part of their tenancy in the Armory. They are actively engaged in developing the artists and audiences of the future.

Dedicated to providing affordable performance and residence space for professional arts organizations and artists, The Arts Exchange houses three unique performance spaces and a gallery. These unique spaces are designed to meet the needs of visual arts and eclectic theatre, music and dance performances. The critically acclaimed Gamm Theatre anchors the roster of exceptional artists and performers who call The Arts Exchange home. All activities in the building are jointly marketed with a clear sense that The Arts Exchange is home to the most exciting and vibrant arts events.

Night falls and the lights of the city beckon, the building is alive as curtains rise on concerts and plays, attracting families and individuals from across the region. Local music and dance ensembles keep the hall jumping with concerts ranging in repertoire from Rap to Rachmaninoff, ballet to hip hop. Independent performances, civic and private events, and The Arts Exchange’s own performing artists series showcasing outstanding artists and shows from around the world all take place in the redesigned Drill Hall.

The Arts Exchange is truly the region’s hub of creative and educational activity, day and night, year round.