$25,000 grant supports Elmhurst performing arts group

The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts has been awarded a $25,000 grant from DuPage County.

The nonprofit group was formed with the goal of building a professional-grade performing arts venue to showcase homegrown talent and live music, theatre, dance, comedy and events in Elmhurst.

County Board Members Cindy Cronin Cahill and Sam Tornatore recently presented a check for $25,000 to representatives from the arts group.

Laura Michaud, the founding member and board secretary of the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts, said the funding will greatly impact the group and programming.

"We are pleased to be recognized as not only a creative entity in the western suburbs but also an economic engine, driving residents and visitors alike into local businesses before and after our programming and campaigns," Michaud said in a statement. "This grant will be put to good use as we continue to grow our newest series, 'An Intimate Evening with…' and invite notable performing artists to the western suburbs."

In total, the county board awarded over $650,000 to more than three dozen organizations serving DuPage residents. The grants were funded by the interest the county earned on the $179 million in federal funds provided to DuPage through the American Rescue Plan Act.