Orlando gives aid to arts groups hit by cuts

Arts fans, take note: Some good news out of Orlando’s City Hall will help 19 organizations continue to provide entertaining things to do. Orlando’s cultural organizations received a boost to their depleted fortunes this month when the City Council unanimously approved a one-time payment of $235,728 to 19 groups located within the city limits.

Mayor Buddy Dyer and other officials had been working to extend a helping hand to cultural groups, which this year received only 6 percent of the amount they were qualified to receive from the state Legislature. The money will come from the city’s general fund.

“We are ecstatic that our city leaders realize the importance of funding as we strive to deliver world-class arts to a world-class community,” said Jeff Revels, artistic director of Orlando Repertory Theatre. “I am absolutely thrilled that United Arts worked with the City of Orlando to bridge a portion of the funding gap.”

Mad Cow Theatre, Leu Gardens and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts will collectively receive $33,589 directly from the city. United Arts of Central Florida will disburse the money to the other 16 groups, which currently receive funds from that nonprofit. The city already annually supports cultural institutions through United Arts, providing $470,570 last year. With the additional funds to mitigate the state shortfall, commissioners approved $672,711 for United Arts.

“We in the cultural community are thrilled with Mayor Dyer’s leadership in making this significant funding contribution to the arts a reality, bridging a critical gap in state funding,” said United Arts president Flora Maria Garcia in a statement. “So many local cultural groups were hard hit by the 94 percent cut in funding from the state Legislature that they had to eliminate or reduce outreach programs. This funding will make a difference.”

Central Florida Community Arts, which operates music, theater and dance programs, was working to find funds to continue its initiatives that serve senior citizens, poor neighborhoods and those with physical or mental disabilities.

“CFCArts is very grateful for the City of Orlando stepping up,” said executive director Joshua Vickery. “This extra money will go to our accessibility programs in wellness and aging.”

For arts groups left dispirited after the state cuts, the money also provided an emotional boost.

“The gesture of our City Beautiful giving priority to the arts speaks volumes to the integrity and perspective of our leadership,” said Gabriel Preisser, executive and artistic director of Opera Orlando. “The arts play a vital part in the education and development of our youth, and also the well-being and cultural landscape of our community. Bravo to Orlando for recognizing that and taking action.”

District 3 commissioner Robert Stuart, in remarks at City Council’s Oct. 8 meeting, said it was