When Dia opened in 2003, the museum paved the way for Beacon’s new identity as a hub for artists, drawing painters, sculptors, poets, and playwrights. Now, a new force is joining in to reshape the local arts landscape. Veteran Repertory Theater, better known as VetRep, has rebranded as Savage Wonder and moved their headquarters from Cornwall to Main Street, Beacon, signaling a bold new era with expanded ambitions.
Founded in 2021, the organization has always been about more than just veterans on stage. While the name “VetRep” conjured images of war stories and military-themed productions, its mission was far broader: to provide a platform for veterans, first responders, and their families to express their artistry—whether through theater, music, visual art, or comedy.
Related
Veterans Theater Group VetRep Expands in Beacon and Cornwall
“While we loved being VetRep, the name often led people to believe we were exclusively using veteran actors, telling war stories, or engaged in art therapy—none of which were the case,” says Chris Meyer, founder and artistic director of the organization. “The phrase ‘Savage Wonder’ has been part of our DNA from the start. It speaks to the raw, unfiltered creativity that emerges when people who have experienced life at its most intense turn to the arts.”
A New Home, A New Name, A New Era
The rebrand comes at a pivotal moment. After operating out of an intimate space in Cornwall for several years, the nonprofit is relocating to the iconic and imposing Mechanic Savings Bank building at 139 Main Street in Beacon, a move that places it firmly in the center of one of the Hudson Valley’s most vibrant cultural corridors.
Designed by architect A. Stanley Miller and debuted in 1930, the historic bank’s facade is made of polished and hammered faced granite quarried in the Adirondacks. Upon entering visitors are met with what Miller called a “sight of grandeur”—resplendent walls and floors of Green Mountain marble and paneled walnut.
Throughout its nearly 100-year history, the building has been both bank and Baptist church. Its latest incarnation, multiarts center Savage Wonder is set to open in phases. On May 9 at their official opening, the organization will unveil a 6,000-square-foot art gallery, which includes a wine bar and “the Parlor,” a 35-seat living-room-style performance space designed for intimate theater, live music, and stand-up comedy. Later phases, rolling out in 2026 and 2027, will add a 60-seat vaudeville-style venue, a 125-seat main stage, and a second full-service bar for a full 12,000 square feet of space.
“With our space in Beacon, we’re able to create a pipeline of world-class veteran writers and artists that will entertain appreciative, discerning audiences,” says Meyer. “And hopefully, a lasting impact on the American arts landscape.”
Veterans as Artists, Not Just Storytellers
Savage Wonder’s ethos is rooted in the idea that veterans and first responders have a unique artistic voice—not defined by their service, but informed by it. Their experiences lend themselves to art that is intimate, absurd, potent, whimsical, jarring—often all at once.
The organization has already made waves with its productions, which range from cutting-edge plays to immersive multimedia performances. By setting up shop in Beacon, Savage Wonder is positioning itself to become a cultural cornerstone in the Hudson Valley, offering a home for veteran-led art that refuses to be pigeonholed. “This isn’t about putting on plays with a veteran theme,” Meyer emphasizes. “It’s about cultivating a pipeline of world-class veteran writers and artists, giving them a stage to showcase their work in front of appreciative, discerning audiences.”
Beacon, with its mix of long-standing artistic institutions and dynamic newer ventures, is the ideal setting for this next phase. “During COVID, the Hudson Valley exploded as a creative hub,” Meyer says. “Kingston, Hudson, and especially Beacon have become places where artists don’t just visit—they stay. We want to grow with that energy.”
As the space takes shape, Savage Wonder is already planning a lineup of events designed to challenge, engage, and entertain. Theater productions will range from hard-hitting dramas to absurdist comedies, while the gallery will showcase everything from veteran street art to conceptual installations. Music and stand-up performances will bring fresh voices to the stage, ensuring that every night at Savage Wonder offers something unexpected.
The organization will also continue its focus on literary arts. Savage Wonder Literary Blog, which highlights veteran poets, playwrights, and essayists, will remain an integral part of the mission, offering yet another platform for creative expression.
The long-term goal is a 48- to 52-week programming schedule featuring world-class performances and exhibitions. Beyond performances, the space will offer internships and apprenticeships to veterans and their families, fostering not just a venue, but a community of working artists. The integration of a wine bar and a full-service bar reflects the organization’s desire to make the space not just a theater, but a gathering place, where art and conversation flow in equal measure.
Grand Opening
The official grand opening is set for May 9, 2025. Expect an evening of live performances, art installations, and an introduction to the space that will redefine veteran-led arts in the Hudson Valley.
Follow along at Instagram.com/savagewonderartscenter.
