Adams Theater gets $800K Through State Program
ADAMS, Mass. — The state's Underutilized Properties Program has approved an $800,000 grant for Adams Theater, which will go towards several building improvements.
The funding will help finance electrical upgrades, HVAC improvements, a new roof and an accessible new floor said theater founder and executive director Yina Moore in a statement.
"The $800,000 bridges the critical gap that we need to close in order for the theater building to receive a Certificate of Occupancy as a four-season venue," she said.
The grant is through the Community One Stop for Growth program, which is part of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development. It will fund upgrades that will accommodate a flexible sound and lighting system. HVAC upgrades will allow the theater to be used year-round, and roof upgrades will include solar panels.
“Since taking office, we have been proud to make significant investments in helping our cities, towns and local partners achieve their economic development goals through a range of grant programs and legislation aimed at advancing the diverse needs of municipalities across the state,” said Governor Charlie Baker in a press release announcing the funding. “The projects awarded funding today build upon that work and will create jobs, build housing, revitalize spaces and empower communities in every region of the Commonwealth.”
To provide direction and insight on future programming as upgrades continue, the theater has established an Artistic Advisory Board. Its members are are Carolyn Brooks; Reggie Carter; Stacy Cochran; George LeMaitre & Pat Fietta; Jodi Joseph; Susan Killam; Matti Kovler; Chris Kuo; Melissa Silverstein; Nana Simopoulous & Caryn Heilman; David Tochterman; and Joe Wheaton.
The theater is currently in the middle of a fundraiser, culminating in a benefit concert by the piano group Two Piano Journey on Nov. 11. The mother and son team, Michelle Chen Kuo and Christopher Kuo, is currently touring to raise money for philanthropic and charitable organizations.
As of Wednesday, Oct. 26 the fundraiser has raised $55,000 of its $80,000 goal, which does not include payments received offline via cash and check.
Moore said she is thankful for town officials and everyone else in the community that has supported the theater up to this point.
"From the very beginning, the community and the local government have been behind this project because they see the Adams Theater and arts development as crucial elements to downtown revitalization," she said. "It is encouraging to know that our work is now recognized at the state level and this should add further momentum to our work ahead in attracting more collaborators."
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