SPRINGFIELD — The owners of a growing performing arts venue in a former church have received preliminary approvals for a liquor license.

Springfield Performing Arts Ventures at 52 Sumner Ave. was once the Faith United Church. In 2023, Angela Park and Dan McKellick opened the building as 52 Sumner and are now using it as an early childhood center in the day and in the early evening, and on weekends and occasionally in the evening, it is being used for an entertainment and event space.

After running several successful events with one-day alcohol permits, the owners are now seeking a full liquor license to complement their entertainment events, Park said.

“Everything is after hours, after the preschool closes,” Park told the Planning Board recently. “Most events are Fridays and Saturdays.”

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