The Cramer Center opened in October 1998 as a private, multi-use facility serving our Manassas Community. Individuals, Profit and Non-profit Organizations, Churches, Exhibitors, and Others may rent the Center, insofar as uses are in keeping with the positive development of Old Town Manassas. Since the Center was conceived as a developing space, we rely on volunteers taking an active role in improving the facility for the good of all.
History of 9008 Center Street
This property was the home of the Manassas Baptist Church from 1896 (original Parsonage) to 1980, when they relocated to their new Church. It was then converted to a broadcasting studio for WTTK, National Capitol Christian Broadcasting. In 1994, Value Vision International (known primarily for their "Home Shopping Network") purchased the facility and developed it into a complete video production unit--editing and dubbing rooms were added and transmission systems were expanded. Several years later, VVI altered its marketing objectives and sold Channel 66 (now PAXNET).
Recognizing the potential for adapting this historic building into a home for Cramer's Music Company and a much needed Community Theater, Steve Cramer purchased the property in June 1998.
Restoration Begins
The Church Street side of the building was converted into a temporary storefront for Cramer's Music Company, and over the next few weeks miles of television cables were removed in preparation for changing the broadcast studio into a theater. The exterior presented some unique challenges--several very large (16-20') satellite dishes, and various antenna systems of all shapes and sizes remained on the property when it was sold. Careful planning of resources was required, since the first show was scheduled to open within five months. But with the assistance of many volunteers, family, and friends, cables were pulled, bathrooms were built, and lighting systems installed. Truckloads of concrete poured into the new steps, sidewalks, and ADA ramps, and dumpsters were emptied almost every week. Meanwhile, employees packed boxes with music to prepare for the move from our former Sudley Road address.
Opening
The Cramer Center opened as planned to an eager and enthusiastic audience. Over the years we have hosted recitals, award banquets, fundraisers, auditions, talent shows, and theatrical performances by different community groups, as well as our two "Companies in Residence"--Vpstart Crow, a professional Shakespeare-based group, and "TFC" (Theatre for the Community), a semi-professional company. Cramer's Music Company and The Taboret Art Supplies opened as scheduled on the Church Street side of the building, and Mr. Cramer immediately began designing and building a new addition to allow both stores to expand. Once completed, all operations were merged to become a single "Cramer Center", encompassing both retail stores and all theatre operations as a single entity.
Would YOU like to help?
All of the theatrical organizations performing at the Center are staffed almost entirely of volunteers from our community. In addition, various Special Events occur which raise much-needed funds to assist people from all walks of life throughout the City of Manassas and Prince William County. Even the actors appearing on stage often volunteer much additional time fundraising, preparing mailings, and building sets and costumes. So many times an extra set of hands or a word of advice makes such a difference. Would YOU like to get involved? Just email us at the Cramer Center, or call our Events Line at (703) 365-8350 and leave a message.
You are invited to participate in transforming our Center into a vibrant home for Theater and the Arts in Manassas. You can show your support by attending events, volunteering your time or just giving a little encouragement to those who have been making this project a reality.
Thank you for your support for all these years as customers of my store, and patrons of our theatre. I look forward to seeing you at the Center.
Sincerely,
Stephen J. Cramer
Here's how Organizations and Individuals remain "considerate guests" of this Center. The Cramer Center Policy Guide!
Return to Cramer's Music Company
Back to the Cramer Center