Since its birth in 1972, and its rebirth in 1989 as a not-for-profit organization, Charlotte's Web has brought the very best regional, national and international folk, blues, Americana, world music, dance and theater productions to Rockford, Illinois. Created by Karen Howard and now sustained through her daughter and current Executive Director, Lani Richardson, the Web nourishes local education and culture while serving as a vehicle for both established and emerging artists to reach their audiences.
The Web utilizes a variety of venues, hiring professional sound and light companies for each event. 2010-2011 marks the Web's 17th "portable" season. The Web hosts shows at many venues including: The Coronado PAC,The Mendelssohn PAC, The Rockford Theatre, The Sullivan Center, (formerly N.A.T.), JustGoods Listening Room, Krypto Music Lounge, Katie's Cup, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Big Cities Lounge, 1st Presbyterian Church, Prince of Peace Church, The Lyric, Bar 3, The Sinnissippi Park Band Shell, and Klehm Arboretum and Botanic Gardens. Through collaboration within our city, each show enhances the cultural life of our community by providing a diversity of performing arts to our diverse population. A vital part of Rockford's history and a critical presence for Rockford's future, the Web continues to support our city's rich and vibrant arts scene.
Our founding mother, Karen Howard
(Web board of directors, June 2009, left; Web board at The Green Ball, October 2009, right)
Our Current Board of Directors:
- Andrew Kellogg, President
- Mark Thompson, Vice President
- Debra Jo Howard, Secretary
- Lani Richardson, Executive Director
- Bonnie Fox, Volunteer Coordinator
- Rich Gordon, Fundraising Committee
- James Jahn, Programming Committee