Florida Theater Festivals Offer Grants to Restore State Arts Funding

Orlando and Tampa Fringe festivals propose giving up their grants if Governor DeSantis reverses his veto of $32 million for arts groups.

The Orlando and Tampa Fringe festivals were slated to receive a combined $78,000 before the veto.
Governor DeSantis cited concerns over 'sexual' content at these festivals as the reason for cutting the funding.
Arts leaders argue the festivals are essential to their communities and operate within legal and decency standards.
The veto impacts over 600 arts groups and is the first time a Florida governor has eliminated all grant funding for the arts.
Florida's arts and cultural sector generates significant economic activity and supports thousands of jobs.