The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center Huntingdon Celebrates Ray Smith’s Legacy

HUNTINGDON (January 25) — The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center is marking a monumental milestone as it celebrates its 20th performance season this summer, thanks in part to the unwavering support of Ray Smith. Smith, a beloved community figure, played a pivotal role in the creation of the center, which has become a cultural cornerstone for the town of Huntingdon and surrounding areas.

The Smith family’s continued support has been integral to the center’s success. Recently, the family made a significant $200,000 donation to help pay down the building’s mortgage, ensuring the long-term stability of the center and its mission.

The story of the Dixie’s inception dates back to 1987 when former Mayor Dale R. Kelley traveled to Austria and discovered a small town theater that was at the heart of the community’s economic and cultural life. Inspired by this vision, Kelly brought the idea back to Huntingdon, aiming to revitalize the town’s downtown area. Despite initial resistance, the plan for a performing arts center took shape, with key support from individuals like Ray Smith.

The late Ray Smith was a farmer, banker, car dealer, and a public servant.

Smith and his family were instrumental in the construction of the Dixie. While the town purchased two of the buildings on the block, Smith generously donated the other two. His philanthropic gesture set the stage for the center’s development, and his commitment to the arts and community continues to be felt today.

As the Dixie enters its 20th season, it hosts artists, draws more than 20,000 attendees—including nearly 10,000 children—and boasts a dedicated volunteer usher staff of 75. Beyond performances, the center provides a wide range of community events, including art classes and the popular “Designing Women Market,” honoring the late actress Dixie Carter.

“I can’t think of a more fitting way to honor the legacy of Ray Smith than to use this generous donation to secure the future of the Dixie,” said the center’s executive director, Angela DeMaris. “Ray’s vision and heart for his community continue to inspire all of us.”

Huntingdon Mayor Chad Edwards, unable to attend the celebration due to illness, sent a heartfelt message praising Smith’s profound impact on the town. “Ray was a mentor and a friend to so many of us. His support of the Dixie, and countless other community efforts, has left an indelible mark on our town,” said Edwards in his statement. The statement was read by Vice-Mayor Andrew Maddox.

Smith’s son, Brent Smith, who spoke on behalf of the family during the event, reflected on his father’s legacy. “Dad was a man of simple values: God first, family second, career third. He always put people first, and his love for this town and its people is what drove him to support the Dixie,” he said.

The evening concluded with the Smith family being honored for their contributions, with many attendees sharing stories of Ray Smith’s kindness, generosity, and commitment to improving Huntingdon. As the Dixie looks toward the future, the town remains grateful for the legacy of a man who believed deeply in the power of arts and culture to bring a community together.