New York Arts Revival Aims to Boost Battered Industry

On Tuesday, during the second part of his State of the State address, Gov. Cuomo announced the first steps of what's being called a "New York Arts Revival," an effort to boost New York's $120 billion-a-year arts industry, which has been on lockdown for 10 months. The plan calls for 150 pop-up concerts , with performances and exhibitions held at outdoor sites in New York City and across the state, including at state parks and other state properties. The effort will also utilize flexible venues adapted for social distancing, like the Park Avenue Armory.

Adam Krauthamer, President of AFM Local 802, sees this as a first step to reopening Broadway. “We think any incremental opening is critical at this point to start showing the public that there is a proof of concept that we could open the arts safely." Click here for CBS 2 video featuring Krauthamer and 802 members Jennifer Wharton and Kenny Seymour.

In other Local 802 news, award-winning conductor Riccardo Muti, the music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, this week announced his support for Met Opera Musicians, who have been furloughed since March without any kind of financial aid or lifeline. 802 is also continuing its #SaveNYCMusicians campaign, partnering with the Musicians Cook! Cookbook Project. Proceeds from cookbook sales will be earmarked to support the Local 802 health benefits plan. Check out new cooking videos here!