The Delaware Division of the Arts (DDOA) is a branch of the Delaware Department of State, which administers arts-related grants and programs. The Delaware State Arts Council serves as the advisory board for the DDOA. In 2003, Delaware arts organizations received $610,400 of grant money from the National Endowment for the Arts. The Delaware Humanities Forum, an independent, non-profit organization was established in 1973 to sponsor programs and distribute grants to organizations promoting the understanding and appreciation of the humanities. In 2000, the National Endowment for the Humanities award three grants totaling $641,612 for state programs. In 1998, the state's arts programs attracted audiences numbering over 1.62 million, including 397,000 visitors from out of state. The same year, at least 136,000 children and youth were involved in the arts through classes and workshops.
Wilmington has a local symphony orchestra, opera society, and drama league. The Playhouse, located in the Du Pont Building in Wilmington, shows first-run Broadway plays. The restored Grand Opera House in Wilmington, Delaware's Center for the Performing Arts, is the home of the Delaware Symphony and the Delaware Opera Guild as well as host to performances of popular music and ballet.