Dear Friends of Gulfshore Opera:
I write to raise your awareness and ask for your support. This week, Governor DeSantis vetoed the $32 million fund for cultural and museum grants. Gulfshore Opera anticipated $50,000 from the Florida DOS Arts and Culture grant beginning on July 1, 2024. This grant meant nearly 10% of our annual contributed income – a very big gap to fill.
The unexpected removal of funds significantly affects over 577 arts organizations in Florida, whose economic impact has grown from $1.2 billion in 2022 to $2.9 billion in 2024 and generates tens of thousands of jobs. We are evaluating the impact on our 2024-25 season, but it could cause the cancellation of some of the plans for our highly anticipated season 11.
Now more than ever, it is imperative that we demonstrate our appreciation for the arts through our actions. We can do this by (1) attending cultural events, (2) making donations as we are able, and (3) contacting our elected officials to advocate for continued state funding. It is essential to emphasize the significance of the arts in our state and their crucial role in shaping our community.
As General Director, I need to make tough decisions such as:
- Raising ticket prices.
- Cutting services and programs to our patrons and community this season.
- Reducing staff.
- Relying more heavily on individual donations.
As I weigh these decisions, I value your input. You can email me at Steffanie@gulfshoreopera.org.
Sincerely,
Steffanie Pearce, General Director
GO Season 10 Finale, Turandot, employed over 130 cast members. Gulfshore Opera is the only company producing Grand Opera at Artis–Naples, Barbara B. Mann, and the Charlotte Performing Arts Center. Photo: Ivan Seligman
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