EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Western Massachusetts performers and arts organizations have a unique opportunity to access free performance space, financial support, and professional development through CitySpace's Pay It Forward program. Applications for the program, now in its fourth year, are ope n until April 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. The initiative, aimed at artists in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, provides selected performers with free use of CitySpace's Blue Room in Easthampton's historic Old Town Hall. In addition to venue access, participants will receive a $1,000 stipend, event support, proceeds from ticket sales, and opportunities for artistic and career growth through workshops and peer-learning cohorts. Courtesy of CitySpaceCourtesy of CitySpaceCourtesy of CitySpaceCourtesy of CitySpaceCourtesy of CitySpaceCourtesy of CitySpace Pay It Forward is designed to support performers who often face financial challenges in bringing their work to the stage. According to a 2024 Mass Cultural Council study, artists in Western Massachusetts earning more than half of their income from the arts make 28% less than the state’s living wage. Musicians, actors, and dancers are among the lowest-paid in the industry.CitySpace’s program seeks to address these financial disparities by providing artists with both tangible resources and the tools to build sustainable careers. “After working directly with Pay It Forward artists last year, I saw over and over again exactly why this program is so important—especially now,” said CitySpace Arts Programming and Venue Manager Zoë Fieldman. “Not only do participants see the financial impact their art can have, but they also build an artistic community and gain skills that help them grow their practice in sustainable and empowering ways.” Since its launch, Pay It Forward has given artists thousands of free hours of rehearsal and performance space. The program supports a variety of creative disciplines, including theater productions, music concerts, and dance performances. The program is open to individual performers earning $65,000 or less annually, as well as arts organizations based in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. Those facing barriers to access are encouraged to apply. For full eligibility details and to submit an application, visit their website. Local News Headlines Yeshiva Academy celebrates Purim with music and fun Springfield crews put out brush fire on Anglesea Street Illegal burning sparks brush fire, damages Agawam home CitySpace offers free venue, stipend for western Mass performers WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less