Got a big crowd? Cannon Hall can handle it

By TONY STINNETT, Courier Sports Editor

Planning a large function and not sure where to host the special event?

Are you among those who believe Cannon County doesn't have a facility large enough to host 200-plus for occasions that are special and need that little extra touch?

There is now such a place for these activities in Cannon County. It is Cannon Hall, which is located inside the Arts Center of Cannon County.

The museum area has been transitioned into what is now called "Cannon Hall," which is 2,600-square feet with 30-foot high ceilings and gallery lighting. Cannon Hall comfortably seats up to 200 for various functions and if overflow is needed for special events there is always the "Blue Porch" restaurant area, which seats up to an additional 60 persons.

Neal Appelbaum, executive director for The Arts Center of Cannon County, said the idea was to utilize space at the Arts Center for such activities.

"We transitioned it from being a museum-only space," Appelbaum said. "We moved it from passive space to active space where we can have meetings, dinners, concerts and receptions, among others."

The facility has already hosted the Cannon Courier Sports Hall of Fame and All-Sports Awards Banquet, a health fair, corporate holiday functions, weddings and memorial services, Appelbaum said. The idea for Cannon Hall was derived from the annual Christmas Dinner hosted there.

"My thinking was we have this really large room we use for Christmas Dinner so why are we not using it for more functions?," Appelbaum questioned. "From my perspective no one has an art collection and theatre space that can be used in conjunction with the Cannon Hall. I think of (The Arts Center of Cannon County) as a Civic Center that is welcoming to everyone. We have amazing theatre space, a gallery that rotates its shows five times a year and ample seating in an area that is perfect for most dinner functions."

People hosting events at Cannon Hall are welcome to use their own caterer or work with the Blue Porch Restaurant on location. There is a rental fee associated with use of the facility.

"We haven't turned anyone down," Appelbaum said. "It is no different than renting a hall with convention space. When we rent out Cannon Hall for private functions an open bar and liquor by the drink is possible with a proper bartender. We try to be very accessible. We have 110 parking spaces and the facility is wheelchair accessible."

For more information regarding Cannon Hall or if you are interested in hosting an event there, contact Appelbaum at (615) 563-ARTS.