ABOUT THE LANDMARK:

The Landmark Studio for the Arts was originally started as a theater group called “The WV Hillbilly Players” in 1978. In 1988 friends and members of the Players (Bill Hopen and Olga Gioulis) purchased the church building. The building orginally was the Episcopal Church in 1886 and still has the original stained glass windows and woodwork. Since 1978, over 130 productions have graced our stage.

The mission of the Landmark is to provide a venue for art and cultural events in Sutton that can be enjoyed be all citizens of the county and surrounding areas. Whenever possible, in cooperation with the schools, we have endeavored to present programs to enrich our children, both in school and on our stage. We also seek to support and promote regional artist and provide them with space to exhibit.

The Landmark has two performing arts groups “in-house”; The Landmark Players and LYTE

The Landmark Players are the adult theatre troupe of The Landmark Studio for the Arts. Originally founded in 1978 as the Hillbilly Players, the group made the Landmark its permanent home in 1988. Since then, more than 130 productions have taken the stage, making the Players a cornerstone of community theatre in Braxton County for nearly 47 years.

This collaborative ensemble welcomes any adult interested in performing, directing, or working behind the scenes. The Players typically produce shows in the winter and summer, offering everything from comedies to dramas and musicals. They also partner with the Landmark Youth Theatre Ensemble (LYTE) for special productions and assist with the annual LYTE Theatre Camp, helping guide and inspire young performers.

Throughout their history, the Players have earned numerous local and state awards, including being featured at the 2025 West Virginia Theatre Association for their outstanding production of Next to Normal.

With a legacy built on creativity, collaboration, and community, the Landmark Players continue to bring stories to life and keep the magic of live theatre thriving in Braxton County.

The Landmark Youth Theatre Ensemble (LYTE) invites youth ages 4–18 to explore every part of theatre at The Landmark Studio for the Arts. Founded in 2012 by Becky Conrad, LYTE was created to give young people in our community a place to learn, grow, and discover their confidence through the performing arts.

Each summer, LYTE hosts a youth theatre camp, offering hands-on experiences in acting, singing, dancing, and technical theatre — including set design, costumes, makeup, props, and lighting. Participants showcase what they’ve learned through fall and spring productions, some of which have gone on to state and regional competitions.

LYTE’s 2016 production of Dani Girl earned first place at the West Virginia Theatre Association and advanced to SETC in Lexington, KY, while the 2024 production of Teen Brain proudly returned to competition and placed runner-up.

With casts as large as 75 young performers, LYTE continues to inspire creativity, teamwork, and confidence in every participant. Families are encouraged to join in the fun by volunteering in various production areas — no experience required!

LYTE’s mission is to use the arts as a tool for growth, community service, and self-expression, helping youth find their voice both on and off the stage.

Facility Rentals

The Landmark is a flexible, indoor performance and event facility available for rental by organizations, groups, and individuals. Our space is well-suited for a variety of uses, including meetings, rehearsals, practices, workshops, presentations, youth programs, and private events.

The facility offers stage access, seating, sound and lighting capabilities, and climate-controlled space, with weekday and weekend availability. Rental options are available for both one-time events and recurring use, depending on scheduling and needs.

All rentals are fee-based and subject to availability, facility policies, and approval.

If you are interested in booking the Landmark or requesting a rental quote, please complete our rental inquiry form here:
👉 https://forms.gle/yWczR4UnMXeRib8BA

Rental requests are reviewed within 2–3 business days, and our team will follow up with availability, pricing, and next steps.

LANDMARK STUDIO FOR THE ARTS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Becky Conrad - President

Jamie Jarvis - Vice President

Andi Spears - Secretary

Christine Allen - Treasurer

BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE

Jeanette Boyce

Lavonna Clark

Randy Conrad

Beth Kennedy

Paul Beatty

Jeremy Grubb

LYTE ADVISORY BOARD

Delilah Michael- President

Talula Hoover- Vice President

Emma Estep- Secretary

Brynne Davis- Treasurer

Lilly Hines- Liason

Lyla Keener- Liason

LYTE BOARD MEMBERS AT LARGE

Hazelee Williams

Helen Strup

Leif Hopen

Kearney Maxwell

Laura Kennedy