People gather in The Rotunda on North Negley Avenue on May 15 to celebrate the start of the effort to convert the building into a community and arts space.

By Nina Gibbs, Bulletin contributor
The Bloomfield-Garfield Corporation’s bold vision for revitalizing the historic Rotunda took a major step forward on May 15 as more than 330 community members gathered for “Raising the Roof on the Rotunda,” a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community. The event netted $40,000 to help transform the former B’nai Israel Synagogue into a new hub for creativity, youth programming, and neighborhood gathering in Pittsburgh’s East End.
Held inside the awe-inspiring Rotunda, the evening was emceed by artist and advocate DS Kinsel, who welcomed guests with energy and gratitude. “You’re standing inside a building with deep roots in this neighborhood and huge potential for what’s next,” he said, following a high-energy performance by the WACONGO Drummers and Dancers.
Guests enjoyed a rich mix of live music, dance, and visual art previewing the creative programming envisioned for the space. T.J. Harris of Harris Event Group brought the event and space to life by seamlessly handling DJing, lighting, audio, and announcements, creating an atmosphere that kept the energy high and the evening flowing. Students from Urban Academy Charter School, which formerly occupied the site, performed a stirring string ensemble in a tribute to youth empowerment. BOOM Concepts artists Cue Perry and Takara Canty created live paintings flanking the stage, as the evening unfolded with performances by jazz guitarist Ken Karsh, mezzo-soprano Sara Stock Mayo, and the dynamic Steve Vance Pop Trio Violins.
Food and drinks from Common Plea Catering, Leona’s Ice Cream, Third Space Bakery, Market District, Two Frays Brewery, and Trace Brewing added to the celebration. Los Sabrosos Dance Co. closed the night with a joyful participatory performance under the Rotunda’s soaring dome.
The event also honored two civic leaders. Robert M. Jones Jr., President and CEO of Brothers and Sisters Emerging (B.A.S.E.), was recognized for decades of grassroots mentorship. State Senator Jay Costa was honored for his advocacy and investments in neighborhood development. Awards were presented by BGC Executive Director Rick Swartz, who reminded attendees that “this space is more than bricks and mortar. It is a promise to the future of this community.”
Closing remarks by BGC board member Jarmele Fairclough thanked attendees and sponsors, including Beacon Communities LLC, Duolingo, Dollar Bank, BOOM Concepts, First National Bank, and Jendoco Construction.
The Rotunda project, led by BGC, aims to create The Arts and Events Center at the Negley Rotunda, a destination for local artists, youth programs, exhibitions, and events. Thursday’s fundraiser was more than a celebration. It marked the start of a movement.
Donations are still being accepted at RotundaPGH.com. Together, the community is raising the roof and building a future where art, culture, and opportunity belong to everyone.