The Marshalltown Arts and Civic Center (MACC), formerly known as the Fisher Community Center, houses the Fisher Art Museum, the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse, and spaces to host public and private events.

“The MACC is in a season of strengthening, and that’s very exciting. We’re improving the building, growing our team, enhancing our events customer service, and preparing for more programming ahead,” said Madisun VanGundy, brand & events experience supervisor.

The MACC team consists of Chief Operating Officer Deb Borton, VanGundy, Kim Hornberg, who serves as building and groundskeeper, and a new events and experience coordinator, to be named at the end of March.

Now through 2027, the public can view Seeing Anew Part II: Through the Collector’s Eye, free of charge, in the Fisher Art Museum. VanGundy noted that this space would always be used to showcase artwork and honor Bill Fisher’s legacy.

“We want to make sure we continue to pay homage to him in this building,” she noted.

By the end of 2026, MACC will look at programming opportunities for 2027.

“So next year is when people can start to see some more program growth,” she said.

Pieces part of the permanent collection will be swapped out and rested from time to time.

“The art currently hanging that was part of the Fisher Art Collection will not always be hanging, but that’s why it’s important to come see it when it is up,” she said. “We’re wanting to create some novelness around the art. If it’s always there and always accessible, people might take it for granted. It’s also for preservation.”

Of particular interest to the public is the news of the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse reopening this fall. It has been closed since the August 2020 derecho caused significant harm to the roof, windows and exterior, resulting in interior water damage. New seating has been installed, with renovations in the final stages.

“That opening will also be tied into the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation’s 50th anniversary, so that’s something the community can look forward to,” she added. “We’ll probably be open for bookings at the Playhouse early 2027.”

This space would be made available for staging plays, hosting concerts and musicians, keynote speakers, plus movie screenings.

The MACC also seeks to increase its visibility as a venue for events. The Monet Reception Hall offers room for up to 144 guests with gallery-style ambiance (can fit more if just setting up rows of chairs). The Pissarro Board Room offers an executive-style setting with seating for 14. It is equipped with premium hybrid-meeting technology. In addition, there are conference rooms available to rent, plus the lobby. If a gathering requires food service, the catering kitchen can be rented (there is no in-house caterer).

“We can do anything from a business corporate meeting, because we have modern AV technology in each of our conference rooms. We can also do baby showers. We have a lot of grad parties booked for this summer. Wellness events here as well. The sky’s the limit,” VanGundy said. “We’ve also done birthday parties, movie viewings. We want to serve the community and their events-based needs.”

Those interested in touring the museum or facility, such as group tours and field trips, can reach out to VanGundy directly who will connect the party with a docent. Docents are always needed, and the MACC can work with people who are interested in gaining volunteer hours.

“We encourage the community to stay connected, follow us on social media, come visit us during our walk-in hours, and consider us for their event needs,” she said.

The MACC is open to the public Wednesdays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Extended Fisher Art Museum hours are as follows:

• March 7, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• March 10, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• March 12, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• March 14, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• March 17, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• March 26, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• March 24, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• March 28, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• March 31, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Extended April hours are yet to be determined. Learn more at: www.maccia.org or by reaching out at 641-758-3005 and madi@maccia.org.