The Flintridge Foundation in Pasadena, Calif., has made drastic changes in its grantmaking programs -- bad news for the field of ensemble theater. This is also bad news for community arts, considering how many ensembles are deeply rooted in service to their communities. Flintridge is at a "finanical crossroads" and is ending its grants to visual artists and theaters and will concentrate on serving local nonprofits working with children and families. The foundation accomplished much for mid-sized ensemble companies in California, Oregon and Washington, awarding a total of $3.5 million to 52 theaters with flexible, quick-turn-around grants, plus support for the Network of Ensemble Theaters, Los Angeles residencies and a book of ensemble texts. Another one, sadly, bites the dust. [LINK] Posted by Linda Frye Burnham