For years, Peninsula Lively Arts has put on one of the most iconic performances of The Nutcracker in the area, putting together a traditional ballet production, and a hip-hop version that immediately soared in popularity when it was introduced almost a decade ago.
The dance organization is known for creating events showcasing different dance styles across myriad cultures, ranging from hip-hop performances to Indian classical dance partnerships and traditional folk productions. Its International Dance Festival draws more than 200 performers and many more spectators. Several years ago, it even rebranded as a way to expand beyond its ballet presence and incorporate other dance traditions as well.
But funding is drastically different this year. More private foundations are pulling back on arts funding, and alternatives from federal agencies like the National Endowment for the Arts are highly unlikely due to eligibility restrictions for certain programs that promote diversity-related initiatives.
“There aren’t a lot of organizations that provide a home for other cultural organizations that are finding themselves on the other side of hostility and nonacceptance,” Debbie Chinn, interim executive director of Peninsula Lively Arts, said. “I believe that we serve a vital service, especially for those who are afraid of being attacked because they represent a culture that is not the kind of culture that is not accepted by Washington, D.C., because that’s what we see and that’s what we hear.”
While the funding issues aren’t unique to Peninsula Lively Arts, it’s created serious consequences that Chinn said may affect the organization’s ability to produce the Nutcracker shows this year. The organization has a $150,000 funding gap that needs to be fulfilled by the end of November to move forward on the December productions.
“The board will meet Dec. 1 to assess where we’re at. If we’re somewhat close, maybe we can make things happen, but we just don’t know yet,” Chinn said.
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In the past, the San Mateo-based organization has usually relied heavily on revenue from ticket sales, classes and other productions and less from donations. But in addition to arts funding cuts, it hasn’t built up a strong base for consistent donation-based revenue, she said.
San Mateo resident Allie Zhang has recently become involved with Peninsula Lively Arts after her 7-year-old daughter started taking ballet classes there. Her family is also volunteering with the production and hopes the production can move forward.
“The Nutcracker is an important community tradition in San Mateo,” Zhang said. “When I heard about what was happening, I was so shocked. We want to keep this tradition going every year.”
Chinn said she’s hopeful the community can help the organization not only produce its classic Christmas tradition but also support the arts year round as well.
“There is no better way to support an organization than to come to the shows and be a part of it, because it doesn’t do any good to perform to an empty house,” Chinn said.
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