Renovated downtown church building to be named

Wrightsel Music Hall; opening planned in fall 2027

The Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) is thrilled to announce that, thanks to a generous foundational gift from the Wrightsel Family Foundation, the venue that will open in the renovated Central Presbyterian Church will be named Wrightsel Music Hall.

Located at 132 South Third Street, the landmark building—constructed in 1859 and one of the oldest in downtown Columbus—will be reimagined as a vibrant, state-of-the-art community arts space designed to meet the region’s growing demand for mid-sized performance venues.

“We are honored to be part of this transformative project,” said Brent Wrightsel. “Naming the venue Wrightsel Music Hall is a way to honor our family’s commitment to the arts and to support the incredible work CAPA does in our community.”

The project’s success is rooted in robust community backing. Chad Whittington, CAPA’s President and CEO, expressed his gratitude for the collective effort driving the vision forward.

“The overwhelming support from our community has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life,” Whittington said. “We couldn’t have reached this point without the dedication of everyone involved. This venue will be a testament to our shared commitment to the arts.”

The project has reached a pivotal stage, with demolition work scheduled to begin later this month (May 2026). CAPA anticipates welcoming the public to the new space by fall 2027, providing a premier destination for music and community engagement.

As construction commences, CAPA continues to seek funding in support of the project. The organization extends its deepest gratitude to the donors who have championed this endeavor thus far.

To date, the project has received gifts from more than 250 families, corporations, foundations, and government donors.

CAPA would like to thank these key supporters: Nick & Donna Akins, American Electric Power Foundation, Bank of America, George Barrett Fund, CAPA Board of Trustees, City of Columbus, The Columbus Foundation, Electrical Service Professionals, Greater Columbus Arts Council, Nationwide Foundation, State of Ohio, Andy Poczik, Lisa & Ronald Wilson, and the Wrightsel Family Foundation.

“I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to all who have backed this project,” Whittington added. “Their support has been indispensable, and we eagerly anticipate hosting the community at Wrightsel Music Hall in 2027.”

For further details on CAPA and the Wrightsel Music Hall project, please visit www.capa.com.