Alive Downtowns, a coalition of 13 historic downtown performing arts centers located across New York State, has released a statement calling for Gov. Kathy Hochul to support local theatres after she announced a $35 million project plan at the Great New York State Fairgrounds.
In a statement released on Jan. 23, Alive Downtowns said that though the Governor’s support for the performing arts is greatly appreciated, they are “disappointed” that their “modest budget request” was denied once again. The program said that the $10 million budget request would be used to continue their efforts to support childhood education and conduct performances and programs statewide. In the past, Alive Downtowns has garnered support from Senator Jeremy Cooney, Assemblymember Harry Bronson and other State Legislative Delegators, all who have helped performing arts centers to receive similar funding to other locally enjoyed recreational facilities like zoos and aquariums.
In their statement, Alive Downtowns reiterated the significance of performing arts centers in New York. “The historic upstate theatres and their community supporters cite compelling data demonstrating the positive economic impact of historic theatres: every dollar spent on a ticket generates additional spending on local restaurants, retail and accommodations,” Alive Downtowns said. “By supporting Alive Downtowns and including it in her upcoming budget amendments, the governor has the opportunity to amplify these benefits and ensure these institutions remain vital cornerstones of their communities.”
Hochul’s $252 billion revamp plan for New York, which was revealed on Jan. 21, hopes to improve audio technology and upgrade the current two existing music stages, Chevy Court and Suburban Park.
Additionally, Hochul’s requests include improving the Expo Center to make the space available for events year-round. The governor’s planned investment in Syracuse’s Great New York State Fairgrounds requires debates from state lawmakers and a final decision in April. Though it is unclear why the Governor denied Alive Downtown’s requested budget, the coalition continues to request their budget to keep performing arts centers alive in New York.
Alive Downtowns includes Bardavon 1896 Opera House (Poughkeepsie), Clemens Center (Elmira), Palace Performing Arts Center (Albany), Proctors Collaborative (Schenectady, Albany, Saratoga), The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts (Jamestown), Rochester Broadway Theatre League’s Auditorium Theatre, Shea’s Performing Arts Center (Buffalo), The Smith Center for the Arts (Geneva), Stanley Theatre (Utica), State Theatre of Ithaca, Landmark Theatre (Syracuse), Troy Savings Bank Music Hall and Ulster Performing Arts Center (Kingston).
For more information on Alive Downtowns, visit here.
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