Founded with a vision and passion for art, the Coffee County Arts Alliance (CCAA) has spent half a century enriching the Wiregrass community with visual and performing arts. Birthed from a genuine desire to cultivate art appreciation, the alliance began its journey in 1974, when Mr. Tom Boozer from the State Council on the Arts met with 22 fervent arts enthusiasts in Enterprise, Alabama. This meeting was instigated by a heartfelt letter penned by Jewel Ellen Smith, representing the Enterprise Branch of the American Association of University Women. Their aspiration? To birth an Arts Council in the Wiregrass region.

Emerging from that pivotal night, the Coffee County Arts Alliance was formed. Comprising a dynamic board of musicians, educators, civic leaders, writers, and patrons, the CCAA set forth with a singular goal: to infuse the community with the magic of visual and performing arts. Their aim extended beyond mere entertainment, seeking to inspire both the young and old to explore their artistic capabilities and to foster an environment conducive to the flourishing of arts.

In its debut season, which commenced on February 5, 1975, the community was serenaded by the gifted pianist, Leonidas Lipovetsky, who graced 14 schools with his artistry in just three days. Subsequent performances ranged from a mesmerizing portrayal of Edgar Allen Poe to the very first Coffee County Arts Festival in New Brockton.

As years cascaded, the CCAA's repertoire expanded, hosting an array of distinguished performers and groups, including the likes of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Ink Spots, The Alabama Symphony, and Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, to name just a few. These stellar presentations have marked CCAA’s commitment to bringing world-class artistry to the residents of Coffee County.

Recognizing the significance of art education, the CCAA has consistently prioritized school performances, offering students a glimpse into the world of performing arts. Partnering with esteemed institutions like the Birmingham Children’s Theatre, the alliance provides unparalleled opportunities for students to engage and learn.

Today, CCAA's legacy endures with four annual theatrical performances and the esteemed Piney Woods Arts Festival, a cherished event showcasing a blend of art, crafts, and entertainment. The alliance remains deeply indebted to its corporate sponsors, members, attendees, and The Alabama State Council on the Arts for their unwavering support.

As it stands, the Coffee County Arts Alliance is not just a testament to the transformative power of arts but also a beacon of community spirit and collaboration. Celebrating 50 golden years, the CCAA's journey is a poignant reminder of what passion, commitment, and unity can achieve.

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