Since 2016, the historic Bonnie Kate Theater has experienced a variety of improvements in the hopes of serving as a hub for the performing arts in Elizabethton and Carter County.

As Bonnie Kate board members enter their third year of work at the facility, a handful of activities are on the agenda for September to help usher in the fall season.

Marcia Ross, programs coordinator at the Bonnie Kate, recently unveiled the schedule for staff, which includes a pair of activities inside the facility while another is expected to host hundreds at Covered Bridge Park.

Action kicks off Thursday, Sept. 6, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. inside the Bonnie Kate as board members are asking the public to hear a variety of guest speakers to learn what’s ahead for the future of the building.

Ross stated the mission of the members involved with the renovations of the building is to promote the performing arts and community events while reflecting back onto the history of Elizabethton.

“Our vision is a fully restored Bonnie Kate Theater that attracts the public to downtown Elizabethton,” Ross said.

One of the key projects underway now is a new roof being placed on the building, a project funded by the City of Elizabethton as part of the projects that are receiving allocated funds from bond proceeds.

But while that’s underway, fundraising continues to be the primary focus when attacking other areas of the building. Overall, the goal for the building is to have a fully restored interior and fully functionable stage that extends the building 40 feet, Ross added.

The Sept. 6 meeting will allow residents to learn more about the ideas for the facility, while learning about the events they’ve held in the past.

And one of the events in question is making an appearance once again.

Ross added that excitement is starting to “brew” for the second annual BBQ, Blues and Brews festival, scheduled to take place Saturday, Sept. 15, at Covered Bridge Park. The event is scheduled to start at 5 p.m. and go into the night.

Sponsored by the East Tennessee Foundation, the festival serves as a fundraiser for the Bonnie Kate and offers beer tastings, BBQ from the area and bands taking center stage.

Visit the BBQ, Blues & Brews Festival Facebook page to learn more about the event and how to purchase tickets.

To wrap up the month, organizers will host the 1940s: An Evening of Jazz on Saturday, Sept. 22. The event will feature dancing, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction. Music will be provided by Eddie Dalton and the Tri-Cities Orchestra. Josh Smith will host. Tickets are $60. Call (423) 895-1762 to reserve.