NWGB Amphitheatre

History

A few months before Northwest Georgia Bank celebrated its 100th birthday on Aug. 26, 2004, longtime Chairman & CEO Wes Smith wanted to commemorate the occasion in a big way — with a $200,000 gift to the community from the Northwest Georgia Bank Foundation.

After much public input and several great ideas on how to best use the donation, the Bank’s leaders chose to build an 1,800-seat amphitheatre on Benton Place campus in Catoosa County on three acres of land donated by the county.

That $200,000 donation has grown to more than $550,000 in donations from the Northwest Georgia Bank Foundation through its annual golf benefit, and the facility’s seating capacity has increased to 3,500.  Combined with public land contributions, the amphitheatre represents a $1.1 million regional investment.

“We hope the community will come out and fill up this great facility and enjoy themselves,” said Wes Smith, Northwest Georgia Bank Chairman & CEO.  “It’s been a long journey full of a lot of hard work, a lot of brainstorming, and a lot of really dedicated individuals.  We are anxious to get this community gift open so our neighbors, families, and friends can enjoy it.”

”We are wholly grateful for the help and support we’ve had from many generous people over the years, and especially the last few years,” Wes said.  “The amphitheatre dovetails nicely with the other outstanding public amenities found on Benton Place campus, like the Colonnade, the Learning Center, Library and Senior Center.  These cultural amenities have enhanced our community to immeasurable degrees, and it is our earnest and adamant hope that local governments will in good faith and wise judgment continue to support with fervor these fine institutions dedicated to local arts, education and public service.”

The Northwest Georgia Bank Amphitheatre opened in grand fashion in 2004 with the Sunset Concert Series — a free, three-night community concert headlined by country-legend John Anderson.