Cornerstone Center for the Arts Celebrates 100 Years of the Masonic Temple and 20 Years of Creative Impact

Cornerstone Center for the Arts is located at 520 E. Washington Street in Muncie. Photo by Mike RhodesCornerstone Center for the Arts is located at 520 E. Washington Street in Muncie. Photo by Mike Rhodes

By Cornerstone Board of Directors—

MUNCIE, IN — Cornerstone Center for the Arts will host Illuminate the Arts on March 19. The fundraising celebration honors 100 years of the historic Masonic Temple and more than 20 years of Cornerstone serving as a vital hub for arts, education, and community connection in downtown Muncie.

The event comes during a year of continued growth for Cornerstone, marked by expanded class offerings, increased community events, and a renewed focus on making the arts accessible to all. The organization has continued to strengthen its position as a gathering place for creativity and connection vital to our community.

A highlight of the evening will be the debut of a documentary by filmmaker and Delaware County Historical Society historian Chris Flook. The documentary explores the first century of the Masonic Temple alongside Cornerstone’s 20 years of impact. The program will also include a panel discussion with members of the Delaware County Historical Society, offering insight into the building’s history, the strong community ties that shaped its early years, and what life in Muncie looked like in the 1920s when the Temple first opened its doors.

Guests will have the opportunity to tour the full building, reconnect with memories from past performances, classes, and events, and experience spaces that continue to evolve while honoring their historic roots. The evening will also feature live performances, heavy appetizers, and a beer and wine bar for a celebratory atmosphere that blends history, art, and community.

Proceeds from Illuminate the Arts, along with funds raised throughout this historic and celebratory year, will support continued building maintenance and preservation efforts, as well as the expansion of Cornerstone’s educational and community programming. These investments ensure the historic Masonic Temple remains a vibrant, welcoming space for generations to come.

“For 100 years, this building has brought people together,” Cornerstone leadership shared. “For the past 20 years, Cornerstone has carried that legacy forward; using this space to nurture creativity, education, and meaningful community connections. Illuminate the Arts honors where we’ve been while helping shape what’s next.”

Tickets are $35 per person or $250 for a table of eight. Additional details and registration are available at cornerstonearts.org. Registration closed on March 1, 2026 – don’t wait to secure your spot and help continue to Illuminate the Arts.