Wilmington Cityfest Selected as Levitt AMP Music Series Grant Recipient

WILMINGTON - The Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs announced that Cityfest has again been selected as a Levitt AMP Music Series Grant recipient. This dollar-for-dollar matching three-year grant program provides recipients with up to $40,000 annually to present 7-10 free concerts per year.

"The Urban Artist Exchange is a key component in reimagining a once-abandoned area on the east side of the city," said Cultural Affairs Director Tina Betz. "The support of the Levitt Foundation strengthens our shared mission to bring members of the community together through the arts, making the joy of live music more accessible for Wilmington residents."

Wilmington Cityfest has received this grant since 2021, reflecting sustained community support, strong partnerships, and a proven track record of presenting high-quality, accessible programming.

Grants are awarded through a competitive, multi-stage review process. Each applicant is evaluated on:

- Projected impact of the Levitt AMP Music Series
- Feasibility of implementation over three years
- Demonstrated need
- Community support and partnerships
- Alignment with the Levitt mission and values
- Characteristics of the public space where concerts are presented
- Commitment to inclusive, family-friendly programming across a wide range of genres
- Effective, inclusive outreach strategies

The Levitt AMP Wilmington Music Series emphasizes inclusive, community-driven programming. Performers are identified and proposed by the Office of Cultural Affairs and Cityfest, prioritizing artistic quality, genre diversity, and opportunities for both emerging and established talent. The final artist roster is subject to approval by the Levitt Foundation's review committee, which ensures that all performers align with the Foundation's criteria and values. Artists and groups interested in being considered for the series should contact [email protected].

Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange Amphitheater
Cityfest's free concert series will take place at the Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange Outdoor Amphitheater at 1509 Clifford Brown Walk. The amphitheater opened in 2023 and is part of a larger campus that transformed historic polices tables into studios, galleries, and performance spaces. It was officially renamed in 2025 to honor Director Betz's leadership.

The Levitt Foundation
The Levitt Foundation leverages the power of live music and public space to strengthen the social fabric of communities. Its mission is to bring people of all ages and backgrounds together, creating equitable, thriving communities through the arts. Learn more about their work here: https://levitt.org.

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