A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO MASSACHUSETTS

Arts

Senator Kennedy has always believed that funding for the arts is essential to preserving the strong cultural traditions of Massachusetts, a state which is home to some of the preeminent arts institutions in the country. Strong arts programs improve our quality of life and enliven our communities, and Senator Kennedy strongly supports programs which benefit so many families in the Commonwealth.

Endangered Landmarks

Senator Kennedy has fought and won funding to preserve the African Meeting House in Boston, a key part of the Abolitionist movement; the Longfellow House in Cambridge; Barrett’s Farm, which played an enormous role in the Battle of Lexington and Concord; Symphony Hall; Edith Wharton’s home The Mount; Plymouth Plantation; and countless other historic properties.

Merrimack Repertory Theatre Facility Improvements

Senator Kennedy worked with Congressman Meehan to secure $200,000 to convert 17,000 square feet of space in Lowell’s Bagshaw Mills to provide the Merrimack Repertory Theatre with new administrative and production space, a rehearsal hall, and housing units for performers.  The Merrimack Repertory Theatre has served the community for over 26 years, and welcomes more than 40,000 patrons per year.

Mohawk Theater Renovation and Downtown Revitalization

To expand on the success of Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MassMOCA) and draw visitors and economic opportunity downtown, North Adams Mayor John Barrett has begun an ambitious effort to restore the historic Mohawk Theater and make streetscape and pedestrian improvements.  Over the past few years, Senator Kennedy has secured more than $2.7 million to support those efforts.

Colonial Theatre

Senator Kennedy worked with Congressman Olver to secure funding for the restoration of the Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield. Colonial Theatre is on the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places, and it received a $400,000 “Save America’s Treasures” grant in 2000 from the White House and National Park Service.  Prior to 1952, Colonial Theatre hosted performers such as John Philip Sousa, Will Rogers, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and The Rockettes.