Depot Theatre Awarded 2023 NYSCA Grant for New Sound System

PHOTO: The Depot Theatre, which is located inside the historic Westport Train Station freight room, was awarded a $25,000 NYSCA capital improvement grant to replace their sound system.

The Depot Theatre in Westport, NY has been awarded a $25,000 New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) capital improvement grant for replacement of its sound system.

The grant is part of a record capital investment of more than $42 million to 144 capital projects for arts and cultural organizations across the state to support crucial building renovations, accessibility improvements, and new spaces for creative work.

The capital improvement grant brings total NYSCA support for the Depot Theatre this year to $55,000, including a $30,000 Support for Organizations grant.

“We’re extremely grateful to NYSCA for their ongoing support and investment in the Depot Theatre and the entire arts and cultural sector,” said Kim Rielly, Depot Theatre Executive Director.

“Strengthening our creative sector increases tourism, boosts our economy, and enhances the rich heritage and cultural life of New York State,” Governor Hochul said. “These record grants will support a wide range of diverse and innovative projects at our arts and cultural organizations across the state, helping ensure all who visit will continue to have wonderful experiences for years to come.”

“Technological systems for professional productions in the freight room of a train station are certainly a challenge, and our current sound system is comprised of a combination of obsolete borrowed and donated equipment,” Rielly continued. “The new comprehensive system will be a crucial upgrade for our small space, with low-profile but powerful output for the actors and musicians that might even be a match for the noise of the passing trains!”

Installation of the new sound system is expected to be completed by the end of the 2023 main stage season.

The Depot Theatre, celebrating its 45th season in 2023, is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, NY. For more information about the Depot Theatre and its main stage and Academy youth programs, visit DepotTheatre.org.

About Depot Theatre

The Depot Theatre is a non-profit, professional theatre located in a historic, functioning 1876 train station in Westport, N.Y., and operates under an agreement with Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States. In addition to its volunteer board of trustees, the theatre depends on the support and generosity of its loyal donors, volunteers and community members. Committed to promoting and providing exposure to the performing arts in the Adirondacks, the Depot Theatre invites all to “Take a journey without leaving the station.” Learn more and get tickets at depottheatre.org.