Basie Center For The Arts In Red Bank Given $50,000 Grant

RED BANK, NJ— Funding for programs at the Basie Center for the Arts made it into the state budget for 2023 to the tune of $50,000, state Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth) announced.

“The Basie Center is an important cultural hub and entertainment center for Monmouth County,” Gopal said.

For the past several months Gopal has been working in a bi-partisan effort with legislative leadership in Trenton to secure direct funds for the arts center, a news release from Gopal's office said.

“The Basie has something for everyone, from theater programs for Monmouth County youth to professional plays and top-tier entertainers. It is a resource we can all enjoy and be proud of, ” Gopal said in the news release.

Adam Philipson, president and CEO of the Basie Center for the Arts, commented on the funding:

“We’re fortunate to serve such a vibrant community, and grateful for the work Senator Gopal has done to assist our mission to inspire, educate and entertain,” Philipson said in the news release.

“The work of nonprofit performing arts organizations such as the Basie Center is important in communities throughout New Jersey and the United States. Equally as important is making sure that representation, diversity and inclusion is at the forefront of our programming. We view this vital funding as an endorsement of our belief that the arts are integral to wellness and everyday life.”

The $50,000 appropriation will be used to support diverse and inclusive community programming, and education and outreach programs, according to Jonathan E. Vena, marketing vice president for the Basie Arts Center.