City of Gainesville awarded NEA grant for Plays in the Park

Published on January 15, 2026

The City of Gainesville has received a $19,000 Grants for Arts Projects award from the National Endowment for the Arts to support Plays in the Park: The American Story.

The series includes six performances highlighting key periods in American history: Revolutionary America (1774-1776), New Mexico (1820), Pioneer America (1854), the Civil War era (1864), America’s New Century (1904), and World War II America (1944). Each performance will include period-appropriate live music, interactive arts activities and dance.

“I am really proud of our staff’s efforts to secure funding for these performances,” said Interim City Manager Andrew Persons. “Each play is an opportunity to reflect on a different point in American history and recognize the resilience of the American spirit as we look forward to our country’s 250th anniversary.”

Based on the American Girl storybooks and dolls, the series will be presented by the city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department. The first performance is planned for March, with additional dates to be announced.

“The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support opportunities across the country for Americans to experience and participate in the arts while celebrating our nation’s history,” said Mary Anne Carter, senior advisor at the National Endowment for the Arts. “As we approach our country’s 250th anniversary, this is a moment to recognize the important role the arts continue to play in our lives, communities, and heritage.”