House Republican Press Release

October 19, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Alberts Secures $20,000 Arts Grant

Performing Arts of Northeast Connecticut will receive a $20,000 state grant secured by State Rep. Mike Alberts, R-50^th District, Brooklyn, Eastford, Hampton, Pomfret, and Woodstock.

The group treats fifth grade students in a 24-town area to an in-school arts education program followed by a free, fully staged, professional opera. Rep. Alberts said the funds will help bring professional theater, opera, dance and musical performances to a school-aged population.

“For many of these children, this is the only live, professional music experience they have ever had,” said Rep. Alberts. “I thank Governor Jodi Rell and her administration for making these funds available. I am pleased to play a small part; these funds will help to bring arts and culture to young people in our area,”

The group is its 32nd season of presenting children’s educational programs.

Opera New England of Northeastern Connecticut, Inc. is now doing business as

Performing Arts of Northeast Connecticut, P.O. Box 75, Pomfret, CT 06258.

This volunteer, non-profit organization has been bringing professional performances to Hyde Cultural Center, 150 Route 169, Woodstock, CT, since 1974.

The program features: Study Guides, In-School Artists Program and Daytime Opera Performances by the Boston Lyric Opera/Opera New England.