Ithaca’s historic State Theatre will receive $103,000 from a $5 million state funding package aimed at supporting historic theaters across New York.

Announced by Senator Lea Webb and Assembly member Anna Kelles, the funds come from the Upstate New York Alive Downtowns Coalition to help venues like the State Theatre cover operational expenses and promote industry growth.

Officials noted the funding will allow the nearly century-old theater to continue enriching the lives of residents and tourists with diverse programming. Serving 55,000 patrons annually, the theater relies on eight full-time staff, 300 members, and 100 volunteers.

Senator Webb emphasized the importance of supporting theaters recovering from pandemic challenges.

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