APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center says a federal grant is offsetting the cost of the pandemic but it still needs the community’s help in raising more.
A Shuttered Venue Operators grant in the amount of $1,300,886.95 was awarded to the P.A.C. by the Small Business Administration through the American Rescue Plan Act.
“We are grateful to all legislators who supported this much-needed relief, especially Tammy Baldwin and Mike Gallagher for their additional support during this process,” said Maria Van Laanen, president and CEO of the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. “As one of the first industries to feel the economic impact of the pandemic, and an industry that will have spent nearly 18 months in an extended intermission, this financial support is crucial to preparing to welcome audiences back in person. It will assist us in entering the Center’s second act on solid financial footing and to continue providing exceptional, engaging and educational live performing arts experiences to our community.”
The P.A.C. must still raise an additional $500,000 as part of its financial recovery.
After closing all forms of revenue in March of 2020, including performances, events and patron services, the center immediately reduced expenses by $2.5 million including furloughing 84% of staff, renegotiating contracts, transitioning to remote work and more.
Even with reduced expenses, delivering the P.A.C.’s mission virtually has resulted in $5.89 million in expenses over the course of the building’s closure.
Donations made to the P.A.C.’s Act 2 Fund ensure the future financial health of the organization.
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