Arts Council awards 2 grants
PUTNAM — The Putnam Arts Council (PAC) recently awarded two $500 grants to Putnam businesses for their art-focused projects. The grants recognize the value of each business’ efforts in enriching the cultural fabric of the Putnam community and supporting the creative growth of the area.
The Bradley Playhouse will use its grant to complete their scene shop for constructing sets. Since 1901 the Bradley has been a cultural cornerstone in Putnam. It offers the transformative power of live theatre. Each production provides opportunities for local artists, technicians, costume designers, builders, and performers to collaborate, refine their craft, and showcase their talents. Their shows are enhanced by the scenery and staging that accompany them, most of which are built by volunteers. This new shop will allow them to build upon their reputation for exciting and creative productions.
Movement Magic’s grant will allow them to offer free group ballroom dance lessons to the community. Ashley Baxter, owner/instructor of Movement Magic, believes in helping people find healing through the power of movement. Her studio offers ballroom dancing, Zumba, poetry, fashion, and more through group classes, private lessons, or private events. Baxter said: “Through my dance journey, I have discovered: when you move, there’s magic. My aim is to help others find the magic of movement.”
This is the first year the PAC has awarded grants. Their goal is to expand the number and size of grants awarded in future years as well as offering scholarships to Putnam art students of all ages.
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