A man and woman perform in a play called "Lost Tempo" on stage.

Live Arts Boston

Investing in individual artists for a thriving performing arts scene in Boston.

Context:

A strong performing arts and music scene makes for a vibrant city life. Traditionally, Boston’s performing artists—particularly artists of color and from underrepresented communities—have not received the same level of investment as artists working in other disciplines. Barr partnered with The Boston Foundation to create Live Arts Boston (LAB) to invest in individual performing artists and small companies to develop and perform their projects in disciplines like dance, spoken word, and music performance.

Grant Description:

LAB provides direct financial support for individual artists and small companies. The program also supports the development of artists' artistic and business skills throughout the year. Artists receive one-on-one mentoring with accomplished performers, professional development from Assets by Artists, marketing skill-building, including the documentation of their work for promotional materials, and opportunities to perform and build their network. In the pilot year, local artists, in partnership with LAB, developed and executed 60 projects across the Greater Boston region.

Outputs and Outcomes:

  • LAB artists, collaboratives, or small organizations are funded to create, produce, or present new performances for Greater Boston audiences.
  • Artists receive practical, professional development to build their business and marketing skills for their careers.
  • Artists are mentored by artists of national stature.
  • Artists perform in showcases hosted by The Boston Foundation to develop their network within the performing arts scene in Boston.

Learn more about Live Arts Boston

Boston Foundation, Inc.

To support three rounds of Live Arts Boston to provide grants, artistic and professional development, and technical supports to performing artists in Greater Boston

  • Award Date: 9/18/2019
  • Amount: $1,050,000
  • Term: 36 months
  • Program: Arts & Creativity

The Boston Foundation, Inc.

To support the next two rounds of Live Arts Boston to provide grants, artistic and professional development, and marketing supports to performing artists in Greater Boston.

  • Award Date: 12/5/2017
  • Amount: $650,000
  • Term: 24 months
  • Program: Arts & Creativity

Founded in 1915, the Boston Foundation is one of the most influential community foundations in the country. Partnering with community members, donors, the public sector, businesses and nonprofits, we aim to repair past harms and build a more equitable future for our city and region.