In a recent government meeting, a passionate plea was made for the allocation of visitors tax funds to support local arts venues, particularly the Four Star Theatre in Burton Heights, Grand Rapids. The speaker, a master's student in music business, shared insights from their thesis, which examined the impact of local music on community engagement.

The Four Star Sonic Festival, organized in just three months, served as a case study, revealing that 64% of attendees were visiting Burton Heights for the first time. Furthermore, 84% expressed interest in returning to explore local businesses, highlighting the theatre's potential as an economic driver for the area.

The speaker emphasized the need for financial support to enhance the theatre's facilities, making it more attractive to both performers and audiences. They argued that smaller venues like the Four Star Theatre often struggle for recognition and funding compared to larger infrastructures in Kent County, despite their significant contributions to community vitality.

As plans for the second annual Four Star Sonic Festival unfold, with expectations to triple ticket sales, the speaker urged decision-makers to consider the broader implications of supporting local arts. They underscored the theatre's role in fostering community spirit and providing opportunities for emerging artists, calling for a commitment to sustain and grow these vital cultural hubs.