New Challenges in the Arts

In a time when the world needs theatre the most, uncertainty surrounds its preservation. The arts community faced a series of devastating blows to federal funding this May. Unexpected emails on withdrawals and cancellations of grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) hit the inboxes of hundreds of arts organizations nationwide. Museums, libraries, theatres, film festivals, and other arts institutions were left scrambling after these abrupt losses. For many, there wasn’t enough time to find additional funding, forcing the cancellations of events, artist residencies, and exhibits.

In California, the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund, established to help fund small to mid-sized nonprofit arts organizations throughout the state, was entirely defunded at one point by the Governor after hundreds of PAEPF applications had already been submitted for review. Fortunately, community leaders and advocates voiced their disapproval to the state legislature. Governor Newsom agreed to ease his proposed cuts prior to signing the final state budget on June 27. Approximately 75% of funding was restored to the arts programs, including California for the Arts’ payroll fund. While this recent victory saved a crucial lifeline for artists and non-profit organizations, others remain at risk without sustained support.  

Despite ranking first in the number of art jobs available by state, California sits at 35^th place per capita for arts funding. This discrepancy highlights the lack of governmental support for the arts despite their cultural and economic impact on California. For the organizations that overcame the COVID-19 pandemic and are now facing the threat of closure again after their funding has been pulled, they are asking when survival mode will end. While the California state budget cuts were initially reallocated to support other social programs, it must be stated that budget cuts to the arts and humanities threaten the entire community.

“It is disturbing and concerning,” said caryn desai, the Artistic Director of International City Theatre. “Part of it is the uncertainty of whether things are already decided or if there’s still hope. Arts are critical for a healthy society. We must focus on surviving and serving.”

Our six educational outreach programs exist for the benefit of our community, providing accessible and equitable access to live theatre to audiences of all backgrounds. Where there is misunderstanding and discord, theatre exists to bridge the gap. It allows us to connect with each other and better understand ourselves and our world. ICT’s performances seek to present narratives with diverse identities and perspectives while simultaneously highlighting our shared humanity.

Our mission began in 1985 when ICT was founded at the Long Beach City College campus, later expanding into the Long Beach Performing Arts Center. This isn’t the first year we have faced hardships and uncertainty. There is cause for celebration, however, as ICT celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year. “I am determined to continue,” caryn assured, “Many of us who believe in our work will do whatever we can to serve for another 40 years.”

We want to thank our generous community for helping ICT reach this milestone. Without your support, we wouldn’t be able to provide education and access to theatre. If you are interested in making an impact, please consider attending a show during the remainder of our 2025 season or donating to support our productions and programs.