Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission Approves $250,000 for BalletMet Columbus

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission approved $250,000 at its quarterly meeting today for BalletMet Columbus’ new performance space.

In 2006, BalletMet converted 5,500 square feet of a 20,000 square foot warehouse into a new 250-seat performing arts theatre. The space provides audiences with the opportunity to experience some of BalletMet’s performances in a more intimate environment than that experienced in larger theatres. It also provides additional space to serve BalletMet dance academy students for both classes and public performances. The state’s appropriation of $250,000 will fund the purchase and installation of a stage lighting system, stage sound system, house lights, a new portable sprung dance floor, and marley floor covering. The project also includes minor dressing room renovations.

The Commission approval, coupled with the signing of legal agreements, allows BalletMet Columbus to be reimbursed on a pro rata basis with funds appropriated in Am. Sub. H.B. 699 of the 126^th General Assembly. Franklin County members of the 126^th General Assembly who voted in favor of the bill include Senators David Goodman, Ray Miller and Steve Stivers, and Representatives Joyce Beatty, Larry Flowers, Jim Hughes, Jim McGregor, Mike Mitchell, Linda Reidelbach, Geoffrey Smith, Dan Stewart, and Larry Wolpert.

The Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission is a state agency that helps enhance the quality of life for Ohioans by improving the state’s cultural facilities. Since 1988, the Commission has disbursed nearly $400 million of capital funds appropriated by the legislature and Governor for facility improvement projects at non-profit theaters, museums, historical sites and publicly owned professional sports venues.

The Commission partners with non-profit groups and local governments on nearly 250 projects in 65 of Ohio’s 88 counties. For more information on the Commission, visit www.culture.ohio.gov.

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