Nathaniel Allen Center for Arts & Culture
Welcome to the Allen Center for Arts and Culture - a state-of-the-art facility with rental spaces available for cultural and community social events. Owned and operated by the Newton Cultural Alliance (NCA), the facility currently hosts offices for four cultural organizations and has rental space for meetings, rehearsals, and performances for NCA members and visiting artists along with a small works art gallery, social space, and ample outdoor event space. With its rich history, picturesque grounds, and newly renovated spaces, the Allen Center is the perfect place to host your cultural or social event. Read more about the history and preservation of the building here.
About the Facility
The Allen Center building is fully ADA accessible. Approved parking is available for 26 cars, including two handicapped spaces, with additional parking available in municipal lots and in a local private lot during the evening and on weekends. The new geothermal HVAC and ventilation system provides advanced air circulation, air conditioning, and heat. The facility also has two catering kitchens available for use by approved caterers and organizations. A member of the NCA staff will be on-site for the duration of all activities.
See the Allen Center spaces available for rent below. Each may be rented separately or they may be rented together up to a capacity of 120. Tours of the Allen Center for prospective renters are available by appointment – please email operations@newtonculture.org to schedule a tour.
You can submit a Rental Inquiry through this Google Form.
Please note: Availability, capacity, and other safety regulations are subject to change per state and local COVID regulations.
Spaces Available
Rental Terms and Fees
Please note that the final terms and conditions of the rental may differ from what is listed here and will be discussed in full with prospective renters prior to finalizing a reservation. A complete listing of policies, fees, restrictions, and rules will accompany the final written agreement sent by NCA staff.
Your reservation for the space is confirmed only with payment of a rental deposit and when a rental agreement has been completed and countersigned by NCA staff. Renters who notify NCA in writing 15 days in advance that they wish to cancel the event, will receive their total rental deposit back. The bill must be paid in full 15 days in advance, or the event will be removed from the rental schedule.
NCA is dedicated to the spirit of equity and inclusion as exemplified by Nathaniel Allen's 19th century progressive, multi-racial, co-ed school. Initiatives that support education, anti-racism, and social justice may receive special price consideration. Additionally, discounts are available for NCA Members and Friends of the Allen House.
Rate Structure
| Space | Cultural Event Rate | Social/Community Event Rate |
| Great Hall (Lobby and Gallery included) | Rehearsals, recordings, meetings (3 hour min): $225
Performances (4 hour min): $500 |
3 hours or less: $375
4 hours: $450 5 hours: $600 |
| Historic Classroom (Lobby included) | Rehearsals, recordings, meetings (2 hour min): $100 | Inquire for rates |
| Recital Hall (Lobby included) | Rehearsals/recordings/meetings (2 hour min): $120
Performances (3 hour min): $360 |
3 hours or less: $225
4 hours: $300 |
| Patio and Garden | Inquire for rates | Inquire for rates |
| Parlors | $50 per hour | Inquire for rates |
Additional Fees
- Security Deposit: Amount dependent on final rental fee
- Cleaning/Maintenance: $100
- Piano tuning (if applicable)
Rental Guidelines
By submitting a space rental inquiry you are indicating that you have read, understand, and intend to adhere to the Allen Center's Rental Guidelines. If you have question regarding these guidelines, please include them in your inquiry.
