BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Local theaters and arts programs are still recovering after the pandemic. Many have been forced to reduce staff and productions, or close permanently.
On Wednesday afternoon, Vermont Senator Peter Welch discussed the new bill he proposed to combat that at the Flynn Theater.
The “Supporting Theater and the Arts to Galvanize the Economy”, or STAGE Act, aims to provide critical funds needed for theaters and artists to continue to generate economic activity in local communities — and ensure the show can go on.
Senator Welch says supporting the arts is a big part of building back after COVID-19. “It depends on that sense of community where they appreciate the benefit of the arts and what that does to the soul and the heart of all of us,” said Welch.
Senator Welch discussed the economic benefits of investing in the arts as well. He says folks who go to the performances then go to the restaurants, spend time downtown, and support the local economy.