The Lakeland Board of Directors has announced a plan to increase its focus on community theater.  

In order to accomplish this goal, Lakeland Cultural Arts Center has requested that the Fitts Foundation take over the expenses and operation of the venue.  

This change will allow for the LCAC board to reduce operating costs, better serve the community, and ensure financial sustainability into the future.

“For over 40 years, the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center has served as a cherished arts and cultural hub in the Littleton community,” the board said in a statement. “However, the challenges of managing a state-of-the-art complex and directing shows and performances have proven increasingly difficult. To ensure the organization's sustainability and to honor the vision of founder Mark Taylor, the board has made the strategic decision to restructure operations.”

Jay LaPointe, president of the Lakeland board, said, "This reorganization allows us to revitalize our core community theater programming that has been a hallmark of the Lakeland experience.

LaPointe said, "By entrusting the facility operations to the guidance of the Fitts Foundation, we can focus our efforts on delivering outstanding community-driven performances that enrich the cultural fabric of Littleton and beyond."

Under this plan, the Lakeland Board of Directors will focus solely on Lakeland's core mission to service all segments of the community,  providing community theater productions, summer concert series, and other events to engage and enrich the community. 

In 2019, Ed and Deb Fitts and the Ed Fitts Charitable Foundation purchased and renovated the Lakeland building and grounds, which was part of the former Littleton High School in Littleton to revitalize the community through an arts center and school. 

“The restructuring plan aligns with Mark Taylor's original vision of establishing the Lakeland Cultural Arts Center as a vibrant hub for arts and culture in the community,” the statement said. “Guests can expect continued operations at the venue, with enhanced offerings including educational classes, live performances, art exhibits, national touring productions, and concerts.”