The theatre scene in Harlem is reeling from a financial uppercut as the Classical Theatre of Harlem (CTH) confronts the harsh reality of a $60,000 funding cut by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). According to PIX11 News, CTH, the renowned company that offers free Shakespeare performances in Marcus Garvey Park, was informed via email by NEA that their grant would cease come May 31, as part of a shift in priorities directed by the President to emphasize the nation's rich artistic heritage and creativity.
Addressing the cut, Ty Jones, the producing artistic director of CTH, summarized the company's resolve, "We may need to be filling a gap before rehearsals start," despite the setbacks, however, he remains confident that the Harlem community will rally behind the organization he told PIX11 News, "The power of the people is always stronger than the people in power." Meanwhile, actor Ethan Hawke, a CTH board member, voiced his concerns, labeling the funding loss as more than just unfortunate but harmful.
The anticipated performance this summer, which typically attracts over 30,000 attendees, may now find itself on shaky ground, with hopes of community support and emergency fundraising keeping it afloat. In the words of Jones in an interview with CBS News, "I think that what we're doing is squarely part of this nation's rich artistic heritage. I do believe that Classical Theatre of Harlem is great for New York City, and I do hope that people will come out in droves. I hope they do."
To help address its funding issues, CTH has planned a fundraiser called Hold 'Em in Harlem on May 22 at the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. Supporters can attend the poker event or donate through the theatre's website. The organization is also seeking help from individuals and foundations, with some larger funding sources already contacted by Jones.
