Park district receives arts council grant

Performing arts programs at Naperville Park District will get a boost in funding for the 2018-2019 season from a new grant in the amount of $7,900 from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

The Multidisciplinary Program Grant is for partial support of the park district's Élan Dance Company, Magical Starlight Theatre and Millennium Carillon programs.

The Illinois Arts Council has provided partial support through its dance program grants since 2009 for the park district's dance performance program, including Élan Dance Company, which focuses on community outreach, development of original choreography and artistic excellence.

Earlier this year, the park district applied for the multidisciplinary grant to seek funding for its theater and music programs as well.

"We are excited to receive additional support for our performing arts programs," said Brad Wilson, director of recreation. "Programs like Magical Starlight Theatre involve both youth and adult actors and volunteers in a family atmosphere and produce high quality shows for people to enjoy right here in our community."

"Arts are important to the park district's core values by promoting cultural diversity and personal creativity," Executive Director Ray McGury said.

"We appreciate the support of the Illinois Arts Council Agency for Naperville's art programs and for arts programs across the state of Illinois."