The Chautauqua Regional Youth Ballet’s (CRYB) annual production of The Nutcracker draws audience members from throughout Western New York to see the culmination of months of learning and rehearsal by the talented students receiving ballet instruction from CRYB.

April marks the kick-off of the 2026 fund drive for the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County.

Board members have sent letters primarily to local businesses, asking for support for the hundreds of concerts, performances, classes, and exhibits their organizations present in Chautauqua County attended by thousands of people each year.

“The contributions we receive from local businesses are so very important,” said UAA president Rick Davis, “and in return, we are happy to give them a lot of public recognition.”

Regardless of the amount of their contribution, donors are listed on the UAA’s website and in the printed programs of the United Arts Appeal member organizations.

United Arts Appeal member organizations include the Chautauqua Regional Youth Ballet, Community Music Project, 1891 Fredonia Opera House Performing Arts Center, Infinity Visual & Performing Arts, Lucille Ball Little Theatre of Jamestown, and Western New York Chamber Orchestra.

As a group, this is the only request the UAA makes of the local community.

“We are also extremely grateful for the support of the County, local foundations and individuals,” Davis said.

In 2025, the United Arts Appeal received major support from Chautauqua County, the Jessie Smith Darrah Fund, the Hultquist Foundation, and the Holmberg Foundation.

Among their 2025 supporters, contributors included Patrons Lyndon and Melanie Gritters and Mark and Donna Hampton. Special gifts were received from M.L.Feather and Lissa and Sherwood Vandewark. Donors included Falconer Funeral Home, Pat and Chuck Brininger, Margaret Fuchs and John and Elaine Sherwood.

In addition, the United Arts Appeal of Chautauqua County is now accepting applications from Chautauqua County artists and non-profit organizations for grants up to $500 from its 2026 Projects Pool Grants Program. Artistic disciplines can include, but are not limited to crafts, dance, film, fiction, poetry, printmaking, sculpture, painting, video, play writing, performance, music composition and photography. For details and an application, visit www.unitedartsappeal.net.

Businesses and individuals who want to help fund the arts in Chautauqua County can send their tax-deductible contributions to the United Arts Appeal, P.O. Box 754, Jamestown, NY 14702.

For more information, visit www.UnitedArtsAppeal.net