A. Grant applicants must own the building and be either a nonprofit organization or a unit of local government. In addition, the facility must be used mainly for visual, performing or literary arts presentations and have ongoing programs accessible to the general public. The Arts Commission will strongly encourage partnerships among community organizations, especially if the partnerships demonstrate broad-based planning for an entire community's needs in arts programming. Applicants must assure the Commission of appropriate insurance and operating procedures for the facility. The Columbus Arts Council has plans for an art gallery and black box theater in an old dime store.
West Point plans to renovate a former school to use for performances.
And, The Natchez Opera Festival, performed each May in the Martin Performing Arts Center in Natchez, draws audiences from across the nation. Unfortunately, deteriorating exteriors and crumbling ceilings are among the impressions tourists carry with them when they leave Mississippi. A. No, but consideration will be given to an organization's ability to manage renovation or expansion successfully. The applicant's track record in running a facility, operating programs soundly and ability to offer quality programs also will be criteria.