Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced more than $835,750 in financial grants to 116 theater and dance artists, nonprofit theaters and other community organizations as part of the 2019 Year of Chicago Theatre—with a special focus on organizations located on the South, Southwest and West sides.
In addition to these cultural program grants, DCASE will also provide more than $448,650 to 157 theaters, theater-makers and dance-makers to cover artist performance fees and commissions so these organizations can maintain their free public programs.
The City of Chicago and the League of Chicago Theatres have designated 2019 as the “Year of Chicago Theater.” This citywide, year-long focus on theater is the first of its kind in the United States.
“Theater has the power to bring people together, influence the way that we think and feel, encourages personal reflection, and fosters creativity and expression—all while making our lives better,” said Lightfoot in a statement. “Our performing arts organizations are integral to the fabric of Chicago and help to define its world-class status. It is only right that we support those organizations that add so much value and culture to Chicago.”
DCASE grants, performance fees, and commissions are made possible by the City’s annual budget and through the generous support of Chicago’s philanthropic and business leaders.