Framingham Art Center In Danger Due To Coronavirus Cancellations

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The economic ramifications of the new coronavirus outbreak are starting to be felt at the local level.

On Sunday, Framingham's ātac (Amazing Things Arts Center) launched a $90,000 fundraiser to sustain the venue during a COVID-19-induced shut down. The center canceled all upcoming events on Wednesday.

"This decision is not without consequences for the future of the organization," Executive Director Jannelle Codianni wrote in an email to supporters on Sunday. "I will cut right to the chase: ātac is facing an immediate and permanent closure if we are unable to cover the loss of revenue from canceled shows and rentals."

Immediately, ātac needs to raise $70,000, which will allow the center to get a $20,000 pledge from a single donor. As of Sunday afternoon, ātac had raised just over $24,000.

Businesses across the state and the nation are preparing for economic fallout related to COVID-19.

In Massachusetts, Gov. Charlie Baker has ordered all gatherings of 25 or more people to be canceled. Some local bars and restaurants are taking steps to keep crowds low, which means less revenue. Even before the disease ramped up in Massachusetts in recent weeks, Chinese restaurants were seeing a downturn because of stigma related to COVID-19.

ātac's Hollis Street building hosts everything from film screenings and stand-up comedy t0 live music. All of ātac's events are cancelled through the end of March.

"The ātac community is thankful for the artists and arts lovers that have sustained us and hope you can see yourself in this new picture as we rally to keep the arts alive and well in MetroWest!" Codianni said in her appeal. "It will take a village—our village—and together, we can do this!"