A performing arts center in Grayling is more than doubling the size of its seating capacity after securing a state grant.
The AuSable Artisan Village received over sixty-seven thousand dollars grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to expand operations.
The new space will offer more seating for the performing arts area and provide room for more art classes. Radel Rosin is assistant director of the AuSable Artisan Village. He said all art students are welcome, no matter their income.
“We are looking into doing some different scholarships, actually connecting with the Kirtland Community College. They host students, and host instructors for us and will only continue to offer scholarships in the future,” he explained.
Rosin said the goal has always been to bring more arts and cultural programming to Grayling. He said building the performing arts center will not only double their occupancy but also bring thousands of patrons to downtown Grayling.
“What we've seen over the years...is our restaurants full! They're having dinner, they're having some libations before the show and after the show and bringing foot traffic into our downtown area. This is only going to continue to help with revenue,” he said.
Rosin said expansion of the arts center will create an annual economic impact of one million dollars in the Grayling area.
