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Those unaware of the Mask-A-Rade Membership Celebration at the Johnson Center for the Arts Thursday night did double-takes at the sight of clusters of masked men, women and children up and down East Walnut Street.

Brenda Campbell, JCA director, said the Mask-A-Rade Membership Celebration was tempered by the restrictions of COVID-19 but was, nonetheless, successful in welcoming new members and reacquainting with members on roll.

However, Campbell said, laughing, that it was not always easy to recognize those behind the masks.

“All of the masks were fun and it was difficult to single out any one for a prize,” she said. “But, the winners were Frank and Trina Thompson with their beard and feather masks.”

There was mystery surrounding the masks but there was nothing secret about the importance of memberships to the Johnson Center for the Arts.

“The JCA is a non-profit organization so we are supported by grants, sponsorships, donations and memberships,” Campbell said. “Together, they make it possible for the JCA to continue to bring high-quality art exhibitions and music, theater and dance events to the JCA admission-free,”

The Mask-A Rade Membership Celebration featured special music by Charity Bowden, a supper of barbecue and beans, finger foods, the fellowship of friends and neighbors and the opportunity to learn more about the JCA’s upcoming exhibitions and events and the opportunities offered through the different levels of membership beginning at an individual annual membership for $50 and a family membership at $100.

The JCA is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Admission is free. The exhibitions now showing are glass art by local artist Charles Adams and quilts and clay by Huntsville artist Guadalupe Robinson.

Members of the JCA staff are available to share information about memberships and upcoming events.