Gallery5 launches a monthly membership program

Gallery5 , the Jackson Ward community arts space in a historic fire station, just launched a monthly membership program.

Why it matters: The 19-year-old visual and performing arts center was critical in establishing the surrounding neighborhood as the city's Arts District.

State of play: The nonprofit's leadership hopes the money from the program will help sustain its mission to support local artists, musicians and performers while making their work accessible to all Richmonders.

What they're saying: "Coming out of [the pandemic], we realized that our strength comes from bringing the community into the organization, and we want this membership program to be a straightforward way to do that," board vice-chair Katie McBride said in a statement.

Zoom in: Membership programs start at $20 a month for the "Ally" level, which includes one free show ticket a month, discounts and invitations to private openings.

• $50 a month makes members a "Bestie," with two free monthly tickets, an enamel pin and pre-sale access for Gallery5's annual gala.
• At $100, "Ride or Die" members gets all that, plus their name on Gallery5's donor wall.

What's next: This Saturday, Gallery 5 is hosting an all-day pride event with roller skating, karaoke happy hour and a burlesque and drag show. Tickets are $20.

• Gallery5 also hosts two free monthly events, First Fridays and Third Fridays Jazz Nights .
• This month's jazz night is B-sides. July First Fridays' is a kickoff for Maggie Walker's 160th birthday with an RPS student art show featuring work inspired by the life and legacy of Walker.