Statement

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We at Walton Arts Center are proud of our rich and inclusive history of celebrating and representing diverse groups on our stages that reflect our Northwest Arkansas community. We strive to be an organization that empowers diversity, promotes equality and showcases all forms of art to the public.

Walton Arts Center did not ban drag shows and did not exclude minors from being present at performances that include drag. Our venue has hosted a variety of shows that highlight the art of drag for everyone such as Tootsie, Moulin Rouge the Musical, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Dixie’s Happy Hour and Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo.

We have heard from many in our community and wanted to address some of the most frequently asked questions.

No. Drag is a performance medium we recognize, appreciate, and present on our stages, and that will not change. We are committed to supporting this community and showcasing all forms of art, including drag. NWA Equality decided to move its events because it could not accommodate our requested changes to its planned activities.

We proposed allowing parent, guardian and caregiver access to all age-specific events. We also proposed a main stage drag performance that would be open to the general public. Ultimately, Northwest Arkansas Equality decided that it could not move forward with our requested changes for two of the six age-specific activations and chose to seek a different venue for its events. We respect this decision and offered financial and logistical assistance in securing another venue.

The Board of Directors was made aware of this decision by the executive team following the initial discussions. The decision was also shared with the Walton Arts Center’s DEI Committee. As this was an operational decision about an event rather than an internal policy change, the Board of Directors was not required to hold a vote.

We understand that some community members feel frustrated with the situation, but it was the position we had to take in the interest of our organization and our stakeholders. And while we hoped to avoid this outcome, we remain committed to supporting our diverse community and showcasing all forms of art, including drag.

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