[Archived from October 23, 2009]
by John Leffert
CenterStage Artistic Director
While I consider myself a positive person and hesitate to dwell on the negative aspect of something, I want to ensure CenterStage is in existence for many years to come. Having worked in an arts related job for the past 21 years, as a teacher, performer, and now director/producer, I have a clear understanding of how troubled economic times can affect the arts. I know and understand the spending of every discretionary dollar is scrutinized, examined, and evaluated.
CenterStage is finally beginning to feel the crunch of these difficult times. Both our season subscriptions and single tickets sales are substantially down this year. The Producers, though a tremendous success artistically, suffered a substantial shortfall at the box office. CenterStage is one, if not the only theater in our area, that relies primarily on ticket sales for its survival and up to now has been able to do so.
CenterStage needs your help! Our one and only fundraiser, Light Up CenterStage, is being held on Saturday, November 14. This fifth annual event features a Broadway style revue, open bar, indulgent dessert buffet, and live and silent auction.
New this year is an online component of our auction which you can view at www.jccoflouisville.org. The event is only four weeks away, and we have not met our goal in sponsorships. Light Up Sponsorships levels start as low as $50. Tickets to the event are now on sale and are $75. For more information on sponsorships and tickets, call Kim Hales at 238-2777.
CenterStage is your community theater and is rooted in over 90 years of theatrical tradition at the Jewish Community Center. It is the only theater in the area that provides a performance venue for works of Jewish interest that offers a broad cultural appeal.
Not only does it reach the Jewish Community with shows like Parade, Fiddler on the Roof, The Producers, The Last 5 Years and Cabaret to name a few, but its outreach into the greater community is second to none.
Please join me in making sure CenterStage exists for many years to come. Every little bit helps.
If you find you are unable to support Light Up CenterStage at this time, there are other ways to support the company. Buy a season subscription or single tickets to our shows. La Cage aux Folles opened yesterday and will run through November 8.
Thanks in advance for your support. Remember we are your community theatre. Let’s work together to make sure CenterStage is here for another 90 years.