Dover, NJ – The public is invited to an open house on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 3:00-6:00 P.M. at The Amp, a new multidisciplinary arts hub located on 10 N. Warren Street in Dover. The 11,000-square-foot facility features a black box performance area, gallery space, classrooms, art studios, and a ceramics center equipped with a two electric kilns. During the open house, community members of all ages are invited to explore The Amp and enjoy live music, art activities, and tasty bites from local eateries.
Mariachi Dover will be performing, and artist Diego Rivas will be doing live art throughout the afternoon. Fine Artist Caitlin Lodato will guide attendees in creating a mosaic which will be displayed at The Amp. She will be leading activities for children as well. Light appetizers and desserts from Dover’s own Sabor Latino and Heaven will be available, along with a variety of nonalcoholic beverages. Admission to the open house is free and all are welcome.
Creative Placemaking at The Amp
The Amp, built and managed by West Morris Capital, is home to a coordinated creative placemaking initiative that brings high-quality arts events and programs to Dover. Supporting this work is a $500,000 grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), part of its A.R.T. Phase II grant program. The NJEDA has invested $15 million in 39 organizations across the state that are revitalizing downtowns and increasing community access to the arts.
The $500,000 grant supports arts classes, performances, and events, facilitated by The Amp, Morris Arts, Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, and IDEA Cultural. Since February, these community partners have brought programs to The Amp including musical performances by Chambacú Latin Fusion, multi-media art classes for high schoolers, and an open mic night. More arts programming is in store including an arts day camp this summer for students ages eight to twelve.
“We want The Amp to be a place where community members from all walks of life can come to create art, experience art, and connect with one another,” said Walter F. Rodriguez, Executive Director of The Amp. “This open house is a great opportunity for the community to experience what we have to offer,” he continued.
NJEDA
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority serves as the state’s principal agency for driving economic growth, supporting business development, and investing in community-strengthening initiatives, including arts revitalization. Through the A.R.T. program, the NJEDA funds projects that enhance public spaces, enrich community well-being, and boost local economies.
The Amp
The Amp exists to link people of all backgrounds, including those historically underserved, with professional artists and creators. We offer programs, resources, support, and classes to enrich local cultural and communal life and to create opportunities for all types of artists, young and old. The Amp stands as a place where creativity & community amplify one another and where connection with inspiring art is a shared experience, not a privilege.
Morris Arts
Founded in 1973, Morris Arts has been building community through the arts for over 50 years. As the designated arts council for Morris County, Morris Arts works to provide meaningful artistic experiences for all county residents regardless of age, means, or background. The nonprofit facilitates high-quality arts education programs for students, community arts events, and arts in health programs that improve participants’ well-being. Additionally, Morris Arts advocates for the arts and regrants state funds to local arts organizations, expanding access to arts experiences throughout Morris County.
Morris County Office of Hispanic Affairs (MCOHA)
Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs improves the lives of Latino and low-income residents by providing direct social services, education and client advocacy. Our bilingual staff serves adults, children and seniors through programs to support family stability and empower community members. We are excited to share our eclectic menu of art classes with the wider community. Through our work, we strive to inspire hope and community integration. In 2026, MCOHA is celebrating its 50th year.
IDEA Cultural
IDEA Cultural’s mission is to nurture artistic growth, embrace diversity, and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome to participate. Through carefully curated events, training opportunities, and community collaborations, they ensure that the arts remain accessible and inspiring for all. They celebrate and uplift the values of our community through dynamic exhibitions, engaging events, and meaningful educational programs.