A newly created emergency funding program from the Fox Theatre Institute (FTI) has awarded more than $85,000 to four historic Georgia theaters in need of immediate support.
The funding is designed to help theaters that have pressing operational needs which threaten the structure of the building itself or impact the theater's ability to maintain its current programming and economic health.
Conyers Rockdale Council for the Arts (CRCA), a 17-year-old facility in Conyers, will receive, $11,348 to replace its original HVAC unit in time for the theater to continue scheduled programming.
In Greensboro, Festival Hall, a community landmark, will receive $19,640 to repair the stage floor which has become dangerous for performers due to years of layering materials.
The DeSoto Theatre in Rome will received $20,000 to upgrade the original fire safety features of the historic theater built in 1929. It is the only remaining historic theater in Rome.
And finally, in Albany, $34,393 will go to Theatre Albany, to repair the facade of the building which was damaged by recent tornados.
FTI was launched in 2008 and is part of the Fox Theatre’s overall strategic plan to increase its economic and social impact and outreach in communities throughout the state. FTI has four grant funding categories including Historic Structures Studies or Planning, Technical Assistance and Services, and Preservation Grant, along with the new Urgent/ Emergency needs grant.
“Awarding urgent or emergency funds are a top priority for FTI,” said Adina Erwin, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Fox Theatre, Inc. in a statement. “Historic venues can find themselves in great financial need and we are fortunate to be able to respond with non-matching grants for immediate funding."
While FTI is no longer accepting grant applications in three funding categories for the 2017-18 award season, applications for the Urgent/Emergency Needs grant is ongoing.
"We are continuing to accept applications, and we hope to continue to fill in gaps of funding to support Georgia’s important architectural and cultural landmarks,” Erwin said.
For more information, visit www.FoxTheatreInstitute.org.
