A portion of the Varsity Center for the Arts in Carbondale is being renamed in honor of a family who has been a major contributor to the creative and performing arts facility.
Craig Hinde is on the center's board of directors. He says the East Theater at the Varsity will be renamed the Arnold Theater during a ceremony Friday night.
"Over the last few years they have given, through a fund that's administered by Allen Arnold, an Arnold family fund, have given the Varsity $125,000.
Hinde says the event will also allow the public to see the new marquee and renovated lobby.
"With the walls refurbished and re-painted. And better lighting and the art-deco sconces on the walls refurbished and put back."
Hinde says the evening will also include the opening night Stage Company performance of "The Unexpected Guest."
A reception will kickoff the festivities at 6:30 Friday evening. There will be an on-stage presentation about the theater's name change at 7:30 followed by the Stage Company performance.
