The Tannery Arts Center, the heart of all-things creative in Santa Cruz announces that the Colligan Theater, a new venue for performances is now open. The Tannery is an eclectic spot that is home to live-work artists’ lofts, as well 28 galleries and artists’ studios which are open to the public. Once home to the oldest operating leather tannery west of the Mississippi River until it closed in 2001, the eight-acre grounds of A.K. Salz Tannery were completely renovated and converted into a first-in-the-nation art community that provides a sustainable, accessible and vibrant home for the arts in Santa Cruz County. The Colligan Theater at the Tannery, housed in the renovated historic Hide House, seats 182 guests and provides the needed backstage and support areas such as dressing rooms, green room and storage areas where local dance, drama, film and music groups can share their talent. The Tannery is also home to Arts Council Santa Cruz County, which promotes, connects and invests in the arts to stimulate creativity and vibrancy in Santa Cruz County.