The impact of COVID-19 and the economic shutdown on the arts in New York State has been profound.

Broadway shows, music festivals, concerts, fairs and until recently, museums, have all been shut down or strictly limited. In New York City alone, tourism has been gutted; but the fallout has been felt statewide.

On Wednesday, the state Senate held a public hearing on the role arts and cultural organizations play in New York and what they need to survive COVID-19. Some of the ideas that were floated include an expansion of the Upstate New York Theatrical Tax Incentive, as well as lifting the prohibition on alcohol brands from sponsoring arts entertainment.

The hearing was organized by Senator Jose Serrano, the chair of the Senate Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation. He discussed the importance of the arts with Capital Tonight host Susan Arbetter.