FAYETTEVILLE -- Marti and Kelly Sudduth have added their names to a growing list of major donors to the Walton Arts Center's expansion and renovation project.
The Bentonville couple gave $1 million to the $23 million undertaking, according to a Wednesday news release.
"Northwest Arkansas is an amazing place to live, and we believe the Walton Arts Center is a vital part of our community," Marti Sudduth said in the release.
She and her husband moved to Northwest Arkansas about six years ago to be near family. They frequently attend shows at the arts center with their children and grandchildren.
"Marti and Kelly's significant contribution reflects their passion for how the arts can transform lives," Peter Lane, arts center president and CEO, said. "Their contribution to the renovation and expansion of the Walton Arts Center greatly moves us toward our goal of providing arts for everyone in Northwest Arkansas."
Officials plan to name an event space that will connect to the art center's rose garden after the Sudduths.
The couple's gift adds to a $5 million contribution from the Walton Family Foundation and a $1.5 million grant from the Walmart Foundation. Fayetteville voters approved the issuance of $6.3 million in hotel, motel and restaurant tax-backed bonds for the project in November 2013.
The project includes a larger lobby, expanded Starr Theater, more backstage space and new administrative offices.
Heavy construction on the lobby and Starr Theater is scheduled to close the arts center in summer 2015 and summer 2016. Officials are still planning a full Broadway season this fall and next spring.
The entire project is slated for completion in fall 2016.
NW News on 05/07/2015