Support the creative endeavors of emerging artists, nurture personal development, connect, educate, and enrich lives and uplift people of all ages through the Arts. The Buttonwood Tree operates under the 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization of The Buttonwood Tree Performing Arts Center, Inc.
Recognized internationally, nationally, and locally as a music venue, it has also offered programs led by outstanding artists in contemporary theater, literature, art, poetry and dance-from belly to hip hop-as well as opening its doors to community activists, educational and religious groups.The Buttonwood Tree is unique among Performing Art centers as we focus on creating UPLIFTING, POSITIVE experiences.
Recognized internationally, nationally, and locally as a music venue, it has also offered programs led by outstanding artists in contemporary theater, literature, art, poetry and dance-from belly to hip hop-as well as opening its doors to community activists, educational and religious groups.The Buttonwood Tree is unique among Performing Art centers as we focus on creating UPLIFTING, POSITIVE experiences.
Services
Begun by our first director, Wesleyan alumna Susan Eastman Allison and her husband, the DJ and radio personality, Stephan Allison, it was the first such place in the city. Middletown has and has had many cultural enterprises over the years, but The Buttonwood Tree is unique in that company.
In 1990, the city's Commission on the Arts approached the Allisons with the concept of turning the bookstore into a non-profit arts organization to serve the North End and all of Middletown as a hub for the Arts.In 1991 Ibis Books was transformed into North End Arts Rising, Inc. (NEAR, Inc.) still carrying "The Buttonwood Tree" name.
In 1990, the city's Commission on the Arts approached the Allisons with the concept of turning the bookstore into a non-profit arts organization to serve the North End and all of Middletown as a hub for the Arts.In 1991 Ibis Books was transformed into North End Arts Rising, Inc. (NEAR, Inc.) still carrying "The Buttonwood Tree" name.
As a community organization we rely on our community for support. If you value our existence and want to see us continue, please consider becoming a Member! We offer safe ways to renew annually, with easy, monthly automatic payments. We also have a Legacy Gift option. For questions or if you'd like your business to partner with us, please contact us.
Be part of the GOOD and join today! All names will be listed on our website. Those donating at the $250 level or over will be recognized on a plaque at The Buttonwood Tree. Memberships are now on a calendar year basis. For more information, contact us at TheButtonwoodTree@gmail.com. Thank you for considering being part of the Buttonwood family!
Thank you for offering to volunteer at The Buttonwood Tree! To assist you in having a safe and positive volunteer experience, we kindly ask that you provide us with the following information. Please note that at this time all positions are online, except for the distribution of posters. CDC rules for safety apply at TBT.
The Buttonwood Tree (TBT) has been around since 1989 - over 30 years and counting. We have a great reputation locally and around the globe as an intimate listening room, where all performers and artists are valued, respected and warmly-welcomed. Our audiences, no matter the size, are attentive and appreciative.
Reviews (14)
Kathy Gambacini
Jan 25, 2022
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Small and cozy, with wooden floors. It has paintings and CDs of local musicians on display and for sale. For the blue grass band event that I attended, they sold a mixture of bottled drinks from a basket (with and without alcohol) as well as wine and coffee, plus chips and cookies. You could not eat in the room where the band performed, but you could sit, eat and talk in the room where the snacks were sold. There were also used board games that you could play in this room as well.
Kirby Deater-Deckard
Aug 27, 2021
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Marisa Henderson
Jul 17, 2021
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Charles Bates
Jan 16, 2020
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Ryan Reed
Oct 09, 2019
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This place has a lot to offer! The staff were very friendly and answered all my questions. There was literature available advertising upcoming events. They display local art for purchase and have an area for small gatherings/events. There was also a refreshment area. They are nonprofit as well. Not in the best location on Main St in Middletown, but worth checking out!
Vickie Vitale
Jul 17, 2019
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Adam Knoff
Jul 09, 2019
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James L.
Dec 05, 2018
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Jenna Hawks
Nov 27, 2018
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Cynthia Ambrose
Oct 05, 2018
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Daniel O.
Apr 10, 2017
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This small town venue is a wonderful place to appreciate local acts as well as more well known features as they appear. They have perfected home style/old time llibrary atmosphere in and outside performance area. Adorned with art, knick knacks and such, this place really finds it niche. The schedule and opening hours with the help of volunteers is especially neat because it fosters creativity and attracts people working on their talents. The community is excellent. My experience here has been very comfortable and I have made it a point to visit regularly.
Laura Krajewski
Sep 02, 2015
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Sandra C.
May 08, 2015
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Every time I come to this place, I am amazed with the music acts that play here.
I need to make a personal vow that I will come in and patronize this place more often because the couple who organizes this space do such a good job.
Just be aware that the North End sometimes feels a bit sketchy. Especially when you're by yourself after dark.
I need to make a personal vow that I will come in and patronize this place more often because the couple who organizes this space do such a good job.
Just be aware that the North End sometimes feels a bit sketchy. Especially when you're by yourself after dark.
Ayse C.
Mar 14, 2012
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