Fine and Performing Arts

Richmond has an incredible fine and performing arts scene that belies its relatively small size. It is considered by many to be the "cradle of recorded jazz." Some of the earliest jazz records ever made were recorded in the 1920s in the Gennett Records building, which still stands in the Whitewater Gorge.

Richmond features an active civic theater, and is also believed to be the smallest community in the country with a symphony orchestra. The Richmond Symphony Orchestra continues to entertain to this day.

This rich history of influential visual, recorded and performance art fills Richmond with an artistic spirit that is both surprising and inspiring to newcomers.

For a more detailed history, please read "Richmond's Arts Heritage (pdf)," an article with contributions from Earlham professors and artists in the Richmond community.