A theater in Morris County, which had its educational programs for children curtailed during the COVID-19 pandemic, is now getting some help to restore them.

About 40,000 people take part in educational programs offered each year by the Mayo Performing Arts Center. Those programs went virtual or were put on hold when the pandemic began.

The nonprofit theater announced on Thursday that it received a $600,000 grant from the Morris County Board of Commissioners.

The grant money comes from the American Rescue Plan Act – a federal program targeting small businesses and certain educational and nonprofit organizations.

Theater officials say that the grant will help them shape the next generation of performers.

MPAC has reopened its 1,200-seat theater for concerts.