$1.37 million in grants for Buffalo arts organizations

The centerpiece of Buffalo’s Theater District will receive $1,197,700 through the “Alive Downtowns!” ” initiative, which was launched to help 13 iconic theaters in the state recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The announcement also included capital improvement grants from the New York State Arts Council for three other local arts and theater institutions. Torn Space Theater will receive $60,000, while Alleyway Theater and Buffalo Arts Studio will each receive $50,000.

In announcing the grants, Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “Western New York is fortunate to have such a strong and thriving cultural arts community. I am very proud to work with my delegation colleagues to secure resources for Shea’s and many local theaters.

“The impact of the arts is vast and undeniable: it supports jobs, catalyzes economic growth, enriches lives, encourages creative collaboration, heals hearts and builds community,” said Brian Higgins, president and CEO of the direction of Shea. “We are grateful for the continued and substantial commitment to the arts from Western New York’s leaders. »

Peoples-Stokes, Higgins, Assemblymembers Jonathan D. Rivera, Bill Conrad, Karen McMahon, Monica Wallace and Patrick Burke, State Senator Sean Ryan, Torn Space Theater Artistic Director Dan Shanahan, Alleyway took leaves at Monday morning’s announcement at Shea’s. Theater Executive Artistic Director Chris Handley, Buffalo Arts Studio Executive Director Alma M. Carrillo and Arts Services Executive Director Jen Swan-Kilpatrick.