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Charles Wadsworth may be retired, but his legacy will live on.

“We have a real emphasis this year on the legacy continuing,”said Kim Wright, concert chair for this year’s classical concert event at the Wadsworth Auditorium.

In recognition of Wadsworth's contributions and nation-wide preeminence as a gifted and talented piano artist, the city's auditorium was christened "The Charles Wadsworth Auditorium" in 1998.

In the years since, thanks to the continued support of Charles Wadsworth, concert patrons, the community-at- large, and the city of Newnan, the Auditorium Restoration Project has resulted in a totally restored, refurbished, beautiful auditorium interior and seating... as well as an updated stage rigging system, new stage lighting, new curtains, modernized dressing rooms, and more.

The restoration project was completed in 2008 and now stands as a testimonial of Newnan's heritage in this 1939 Art Deco Municipal Auditorium that has been preserved for future generations.

Credits for the restoration project go to many, notes the city's Cultural Arts Commission. Most notable "curtain calls" deservedly go to Shirley Church and associates Elizabeth Beers and Jo Ann Ray of the restoration project committee for their untiring efforts. Val Cranford, Ellen Ehrenhard, Carol Harless, Steve Hill, Don Nixon, Martha Ann Parks, Georgia Shapiroand Bill Stephenson have also been dedicated supporters. Dr. M.H. "Chip" Cole, Sample Brown and Jim Rogers were also dedicated contributors. Supporters Herb Bridges and the Newnan Playmakers, who entertained at the auditorium for years, deserve a bouquet. Newnan Mayor Keith Brady and Newnan's City Council also deserve major credit for their ongoing support of the restoration project. Additionally, accolades go to all those, both companies and individuals, who have continued to support each Wadsworth and Friends Concert.

Newnan Mayor Keith Brady presided over the name change ceremonies during the fifth annual "Wadsworth and Friends" concert to benefit the 624 seat auditorium.