Inside DeKalb’s historic Egyptian Theatre, the Illinois Arts Council awarded over $29,000 Thursday to two NIU organizations and six local groups for the performing and fine arts.

CAB’s Fine Arts Series received $9,450 toward operating support.

Also, NIU’s Art Museum received $19,810 to use toward an exhibit project.

“Providing these grants is our way to make an awareness of opportunities in the arts for all ages in the community,” said State Rep. David Wirsing, R-Sycamore, of the 70th district.

Wirsing joined legislative liaison Karla Kunzeman during the award presentation.

Local organizations apply each year for state funds to support their programs, Kunzeman said.

“Most of them tell me they could not exist with out the assistance,” she said. “These grants make or break these organizations.”

Kunzeman said organizations have a difficult time attaining funds from local sources because the review process to receive the state funding is difficult.

Frank Bazeli, of the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, said not having the funds would make operations difficult.

“If we don’t receive the funds, then we would have to cut back drastically,” he said.