The lights went dim on concerts and the entertainment industry last March. One year later, the pandemic is still having a devastating impact on live venues.

Rep. Tom Suozzi on Wednesday encouraged owners of entertainment venues to apply for a grant program called the Shuttered Venues Operators Grant, which is included in the American Rescue Plan.

“There's been a lot of suffering. I'm excited that we can help these businesses survive so they can give us the hope we're all looking for when things get better,” he said.

Entertainment venues, such as The Paramount in Huntington and the John Engeman Theatre in Northport, are hoping the grant will be the lifeline they need.

“Starting this April, we can open at 25% or 100 people, which is not economically feasible for us,” says Kevin O'Neill, of the John Engeman Theatre.

Entertainment venue owners can apply for the grant beginning next week.