LAWRENCE, Kan. – 11/12/2020 -- Black Hills Energy is partnering with the Lawrence Arts Center for a weekend of song, dance and… energy efficiency? As a part of the Lawrence Arts Center mission to create meaningful arts experiences in the community, the state-of-the-art organization is hosting a hybrid of drive-in and streaming options. The performances are being fueled by a Black Hills Energy match.

On Saturday, the Lawrence Arts Center is presenting “The Big One-Oh,” a story of Charley Maplewood throwing himself a birthday party with imaginary friends in a spooky theme. On Sunday, the organization will showcase COATS presented by Play12, which will include 30 original, fast-moving skits in 60 minutes. Complete details for both shows can be found at www.LawrenceArtsCenter.org.

“It’s no secret arts organizations are being impacted by the pandemic, but we’re committed to coming out of this stronger,” said Lawrence Arts Center CEO Margaret Weisbrod Morris. “We hope people either attend the drive-in or watch online because it will make for an entertaining weekend. We also want people to take advantage of the opportunity to double their donation thanks to the generosity of Black Hills Energy.”

To support the organization’s work, Black Hills Energy is doubling the weekend’s donations and ticket sales up to $5,000 when articles of denim are collected for the utility’s Blue Jeans Go Green campaign. When denim that is at least 90% cotton is collected either at the arts center or the drive-in performance, Black Hills Energy will match their financial donation. The donated denim will then be turned into home insulation that improves energy efficiency and can help lower utility costs.

“This partnership with Lawrence Arts Center is an amazing confluence of three opportunities,” said Black Hills Energy Operations Manager Mario Gradillas. “We’re supporting a long-standing partner, we’re empowering our community’s generosity, and we’re presenting a sustainable energy efficiency solution. We hope everyone spends their weekend supporting this great cause that will bring so much good to our community.”