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Sunset Center Launches “Century of Creativity,” a Five-Year Journey to Its Theater’s Centennial in 2031
Sunset Center, a cornerstone of arts and culture on the Monterey Peninsula, will launch Century of Creativity — a five-year community campaign (2026–2031) honoring the Center’s remarkable evolution from schoolhouse to performing arts landmark — with a series of events beginning this fall. Sunset Center, together with the Carmel Chamber of Commerce, will host a press conference and ribbon-cutting on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 1 to 2 p.m., officially opening the campaign.
Century of Creativity honors two milestones on one beloved campus. In 2026, the Center celebrates the 100th anniversary of its original 1926 building, the home of the former Sunset School, where generations of local families learned, grew, and — for many — stepped onto a stage for the very first time. In 2031, the campaign culminates with 100 years of live performance in the theater, whose landmark auditorium first opened its doors in 1931. Between now and then, every performance, exhibition, and gathering becomes part of one larger community story.
From its beginnings as a neighborhood school to its role today as a vibrant center for arts, culture, learning, and community, Sunset Center has been woven into the fabric of Carmel life for a century — and Century of Creativity invites the whole community to help write its next chapter.
“For 100 years, Sunset has brought people together. From its beginnings as a neighborhood school to the community gathering place it is today, generations have learned, performed, celebrated, and made lasting memories here. Our centennial is a chance to celebrate everyone who has been part of that story and to look forward to the next 100 years of creativity, connection, and community,” said Beth Bowman, Executive Director of Sunset Cultural Center.
The celebration continues with a free, family-friendly Centennial Community Celebration on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. on the Sunset Center campus. Marking the first chapter of Century of Creativity, the afternoon will feature performances by resident companies, an open gallery, tenant open houses, and a photographic exhibit honoring the people and stories that have shaped the Center.
Community members are invited to be part of Century of Creativity — by attending events, sharing a memory or photograph for the centennial archive, or volunteering.
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