Palo Alto Announces ArtLift Grants, TheatreWorks Unveils New Season

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The city of Palo Alto is seeking artists and creatives to apply for its ArtLift grant program, offering ten $5,000 grants for temporary public art projects. Meanwhile, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley announced its 2026-27 season, which includes two world premieres and several regional premieres. Redwood City's Sound Union is also hosting its first gear swap for local musicians.

Why it matters

These arts initiatives showcase the vibrant cultural landscape of the Bay Area, providing opportunities for artists, musicians, and theatergoers to engage with their communities. The ArtLift grants aim to combat isolation and foster a sense of connection, while TheatreWorks' new season promises a diverse lineup of productions that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. The gear swap at Sound Union also supports local musicians by helping them access the tools they need.

The details

The Palo Alto ArtLift grants will fund temporary public art projects such as outdoor installations, murals, pop-up performances, and interactive experiences. The deadline to apply is February 20. TheatreWorks' 2026-27 season includes the world premieres of 'The Employee Dharma Handbook' and 'Love Notes: A Romantic Musical Triangle,' as well as regional premieres of 'Dracula' and 'Alice, Formerly of Wonderland.' The season will also mark the company's first production at the Fox Theatre in Redwood City. The Sound Union gear swap will allow musicians to swap, sell, or trade musical equipment.

• The Palo Alto ArtLift grant application deadline is February 20, 2026.
• TheatreWorks' 2026-27 season runs from July 2026 to April 2027.
• The Sound Union gear swap takes place on February 7, 2026 from noon to 3 p.m.