FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)- The arts industry has been greatly impacted by COVID-19 after hundreds of shows and performances were forced to cancel.
“It’s been a big blow because all of theaters have closed their doors…everything trickles down and snowballs… it’s going to take a while to get the engine back running again,” said Karen Wiley, President of the Fort Worth Arts Council.
Wiley said the arts industry is a huge economic driver for the city, bringing in over $4 million per year. “We employ over 15,000 people and contribute millions to the economic development of Fort Worth and on top of that, there’s an additional over $4.5 million made on tourism for those coming to the events and museums,” said Wiley. “We have a strong driving force here in the community and the virus has really affected us,” she said.
Wiley said the arts council is working with the city and other arts groups across the nation to come up with ways to reopen safely and in a way that enforces social distancing. “There’s been a lot of work behind the scenes on how we can change out the correct air filters, some have even put up dividers where they need to be…there’s been a lot of prep work done,” said Wiley.
Wiley said specific plans on reopening hasn’t been determined yet but they continue to post updates online about future scheduled events.
In the meantime, Wiley said you can look on VisitFortWorth.com for ways to engage with and support the local arts industry virtually