Key NEA program expands

IFACCA/Artshub, 13 May 2005,USA

The National Endowment for the Arts initiative, Shakespeare in American Communities, is growing its ranks, with the number of arts companies involved rising from 21 to 35 across 12 months, and a corresponding education program launched. In 2005-06, 35 grants totalling $975,000 were awarded through the program. This is set to extend further with a new component to the initiative, Shakespeare for a New Generation, earmarked to receive matching funds to support activities targeting students from at least 10 schools in their communities, states or regions during the 2005-06 school year. This third phase of the program will include theatre companies that present full productions and those that present Shakespeare's work through model education programs. Arts Midwest, a regional arts organisation based in Minneapolis, is managing the program. Honorary Chairman of the Shakespeare in American Communities project, Mrs. Laura Bush, commended the program's expansion. 'Shakespeare for a New Generation brings the world of this great playwright to thousands of school children throughout the country,' Mrs. Bush said. 'As I am delighted to see this effort expanded so that even more children will be able to experience the magic of William Shakespeare.' Since its 2002 inauguration, Shakespeare in American Communities has reached more than 550 communities with more than 1200 performances. 'This program helps actors, students, teachers, and theatre companies while improving the quality of education across the country. It is a model of both artistic excellence and grassroots accessibility,' said NEA Chairman Dana Gioia. For further information, CLICK HERE.

Show latest news, more from May 2005.