In 2011, an expanded gaming law required that 2% of state tax revenue from resort-style casinos be dedicated toward a Mass Cultural Council grant program. The latest payout is helping 43 smaller performing arts organizations compete with "the deep pockets" of those same casinos when booking tourist artists and shows, according to the council.
More than $3.7 million in state gaming tax revenue is flowing to 43 nonprofit and municipal performing arts centers to help them compete with the state’s casinos to book touring artists and performances, the Mass Cultural Council announced.