BETHEL — In support of an organization and venue connecting community members to music and the arts, Norway Savings Bank is pleased to donate $2,500 to BAAM at The Gem, a partnership between Bethel Area Arts & Music and The Gem Theater on 48 Cross Street in Bethel.

“In its third year, the BAAM at The Gem partnership hosted 28 events in 2024, featuring a diverse lineup ranging from a performance by Wabanaki artist Firefly the Hybrid to a book release by local author Amy Wight Chapman,” said Kate Webb, Program Director for Bethel Area Arts & Music. “These events supported 93 artists, 70 of whom are based in Maine. Support from community partners like NSB helps fulfill our mission of cultivating an arts-inspired community.”

On March 28, BAAM at The Gem presented the “Artists in Motion Film Festival” and the upcoming schedule includes “A Celebration of Maine’s Deerbrook Editions Press” poetry reading on April 4, Lizzie No on April 12, a Beatles tribute concert for families on April 26, Denitia on May 12, and much more.

“All of these live performances, art films, talks, and other events have ‘pay what you can’ admission. How incredible to provide these experiences and this exposure for all to enjoy,” said Dan Walsh, President and CEO of NSB. “We’re proud to support a group that not only believes in the importance of making the arts accessible but is tangibly doing so.”

“BAAM is committed to developing opportunities that encourage community participation, youth engagement, and promoting both individual and collective creativity,” said Webb. “Our dedication to upholding these principles and strengths is interwoven within our mission to bring arts and culture to Western Maine.”

To learn more about BAAM, view a BAAM at The Gem schedule, or discover how you can offer support to the organization, visit www.bethelareaartsandmusic.com.