Specialties
TBT is unique among Performing Art centers as we focus on creating UPLIFTING, POSITIVE experiences. We nurture personal development through leading edge, often spiritual workshops and programs. We believe in our innate power to create as we desire, and trust the inherent good nature of our sisters and brothers to help us succeed, as we serve them.
Our music events range from providing space to the local musician who has never performed in public, to world-class artists who have played at The White House, Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, in stadiums around the world, and more. Always high quality, always warm & friendly, casual and entertaining. We serve light snacks and beverages of all sorts and there's FREE, ample parking behind our neighbor, It's Only Natural market.
In addition to our Open Mics with one specifically for TEENS, we have wonderful programs every month like Storytelling, Drum Circles, Sound Healings, Laughter Yoga, a daytime Hatha Yoga class and a workshop for your greater well-being: "Aligned With Source". TBT Members may attend all regular events for free and get one free beverage at events.
We also offer a terrific, though limited, used book store and an Art Gallery for local artists.
We welcome volunteers, interns, and work-study students and thank Wesleyan University and Middlesex Community College for providing needed staffing - offering students the opportunities to learn about LIFE, and all the intricacies of running a nonprofit arts organization.
History
Established in 1989.
The Buttonwood Tree opened its doors as a storefront bookstore and
performance space in Middletown's storied North End in 1989. Begun by
our first director, Wesleyan alumna Susan Eastman Allison and her
husband, the DJ and radio personality, Stephan Allison, it was the
first such place in the city. Middletown has and has had many
cultural enterprises over the years but The Buttonwood Tree is unique
in that company. From its opening it has been a grassroots, avant
garde center for all ages, all comers, artists and audiences.
Recognized nationally and internationally as a music venue (see Kunle
Mwanga), it has also offered programs led by outstanding artists in
contemporary theater, literature, art, poetry and dance--from belly
to hip hop--as well as opening its doors to community activists,
educational and religious groups.
In 1990 the city's Commission on the Arts approached the Allisons with
the concept of turning the bookstor
Meet the Business Owner: Anne-Marie C.
Ann-Marie Cannata, director of The Buttonwood Tree in Middletown, Connecticut.