Westport, N.Y. – The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) has increased its commitment to the Depot Theatre with a grant of $15,000 per year for each of the next two years. The multi-year general-operating support grant is the largest NYSCA award to the Depot in eight years.

NYSCA grants are awarded in 15 programs and the Regional Economic Development Council initiative in all 62 counties to support the creation of visual, performing, literary and media arts. The Depot Theatre is one of seven non-profit arts organizations (including two theatre companies) in Essex County to receive funding this year.

“This more than doubles our annual allocation over our previous grant,” said Amy McNamara, president of the Depot Theatre Board of Trustees. “On behalf of the Depot, we are grateful to Governor Cuomo, the New York State Legislature and, especially, the dedicated staff at NYSCA for their continued confidence in the mission and direction of the theatre.”

“NYSCA recognizes and supports the importance of the arts to our communities,” said New York State Senator Betty Little, who is a member of the Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation Committee. “The State’s continued commitment to the Depot Theatre, especially during its 40th anniversary season, is a testament to the organization’s significance in the overall cultural landscape in the Adirondacks.”

In 2017, the Depot Theatre replaced the seating and carpeting in its 134-seat theatre. The project was funded in-part by a facilities program grant from NYSCA.

The Depot Theatre’s 2018 Season, its 40th, is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in the Adirondacks, and operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association. Celebrating its 40th anniversary season in 2018, the theatre currently offers 3-4 productions in the summer along with educational outreach programs. For more information about the Depot Theatre, visit depottheatre.org or call 518.962.4449.

###

ABOUT THE DEPOT THEATRE

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” The Depot Theatre’s 2018 Season, its 40th, is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support is provided by the Essex County Arts Council.