Uff, once again lawmakers are debating slashing the NEA budget. Listening to people argue that the arts are a luxury, I am so thankful for all the people who volunteer for their local cultural councils. These cultural councils understand how the arts improve the lives of their constituents.
Since Monkeyhouse has moved to Springstep, I have been especially impressed with the Medford Arts Council. They were one of the main funders behind the Two Road's Dance in the Fells, which just received one of six Gold Star Awards from the Massachusetts Cultural Council (6 awards out of 5000 possible programs...how about those odds?). Even though Two Roads was a brand spanking new organization, the Medford Arts Council recognized that their proposal would encourage people to explore a gorgeous set of trails in the Fells, introduce new audiences to 6 different choreographers, and attract hundreds of people to downtown Medford for the day. As one of the artists involved in Dance in the Fells, I was delighted that several of the Arts Council members attended the festival and took the time to chat with Monkeyhouse. Their dedication to the project was palpable.
During our conversation, Monkeyhouse's Production Manager, Jason Ries, mentioned that we were planning Against the Odds: Stories of Adaptation, Translation, and Survival at Springstep and a council member immediately suggested that we apply for funding through them. We were so honored when the Medford Arts Council awarded Monkeyhouse a substantial grant for our moving smorgasbord, Against the Odds: Stories of Adaptation, Translation, and Survival. Through this funding, we are able to offer discounted tickets to Medford residents ($10 for the first two weekends, $15 for the second two weekend, $12 for any of the master classes). Thanks to everyone who keeps the Medford Arts Council thriving and relevant to this community.
Against the Odds: Stories of Adaptation, Translation, and Survival is supported in part by the Medford Arts Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.
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