Our History

The Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center was established as a hub for arts, culture, and education in Auburn. Named in honor of Donald M. Gay (May 29, 1913 - April 9, 2012), the center pays tribute to a man whose impact on the Auburn School System and its students continues to resonate today.

Mr. Gay served as the Supervisor of Music for the Auburn School System and directed both the Edward Little High School Band and Chorus from 1944 to 1959. Under his leadership, these programs flourished, earning recognition as some of the most prestigious high school ensembles in New England. His departure in 1959 was so profound that local newspapers dedicated more than two full pages to honoring his legacy. Reflecting on his time at ELHS, Mr. Gay once said, “I look back at my days at Edward Little not only with fondness but as one of, if not the best, teaching experiences of my life.”

In 1997, the ELHS Class of 1951 established a scholarship in his name, awarding over $100,000 to 21 recipients. In 2022, they decided to leave a lasting legacy by donating the remaining $400,000 to name the new Performing Arts Center in Mr. Gay’s honor—marking the largest private financial gift in ELHS history. This incredible gesture reflects the enduring impact Mr. Gay had on his students and the Auburn community.

The Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center officially opened to the school on December 19, 2023, hosting its first event for the Edward Little High School community. The center initially operated under the supervision of Bill Buzza, the high school’s music director, until the hiring of its first dedicated Events Coordinator, Lilly Gardiner, in October 2024.

Our Mission & Vision 

The Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center is dedicated to promoting arts, culture, and education while providing a professional space for both student and community performances.

As the home of the ELHS Drama & Music Department, the center also welcomes local and statewide organizations, including:

• Maine State Music Theater
• Miss Maine Scholarship Program
• Odyssey of the Mind Maine
• Special Olympics Maine
• Auburn Community Band
• Girl Scouts of Maine
• Maine College of Health Professions
• University of Maine Augusta
• The Grace Center of Movement
• The Dance Center
• L/A Ballet

Our Team

Our dedicated team ensures that the DMG Performing Arts Center remains a premier venue for performances and events. For inquiries about hosting an event at The Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center, contact us today!

Lilly Gardiner – Event Coordinator

Lilly Gardiner brings a lifelong passion for the performing arts and extensive event management experience to her role as Event Coordinator at the Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center. Born in the United Kingdom, she began ballet at age three and later pursued choreography and performance throughout high school.

She earned a BA in Business and Event Management, launching a career in corporate event planning and freelance social media management with a focus on musical theater. In addition to her work at the PAC, Lilly serves as a Project Coordinator for the school-based food hub, supporting Auburn, Lewiston, and Lisbon schools in integrating local, healthy food into their meal programs.

Lilly joined Edward Little High School in September 2024, excited to establish a strong foundation for the venue as the first manager of the space. With her background in both the arts and event coordination, she is committed to enhancing the space, streamlining operations, and fostering a thriving performing arts hub for the community.

William "Bill" Buzza – Music Director

William “Bill” Buzza is the Edward Little HS instrumental music teacher, band director, and Arts department chair. Bill spent a decade advocating for an auditorium in the new ELHS, playing a pivotal role in the creation of the Donald M. Gay Performing Arts Center. His unwavering commitment to this project reflects his belief in the power of the arts to enrich the lives of students and the surrounding community. Bill is thrilled to witness the enthusiasm surrounding the DMG and the unique experiences it offers to both students and community members alike.

Bill earned his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Maine, and obtained a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of New England, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to lead and inspire others in the field of education.

Since joining the faculty at Edward Little High School in 2012, Bill has been committed to fostering a love for music among his students and challenges them to continually strive to improve their musical ability.