You could call it “Miracle on 74th Street.”
It was a definite nail-biter, but SecondStory Repertory (SSR), the professional theatre company at Redmond Town Center, was saved from bankruptcy and closure, just hours before the end of the business day on New Year’s Eve.
Back in October, managing director Caitlin Frances and artistic director Susanna Wilson announced that the theatre was in serious danger, needing $80,000 by the end of 2009 to continue its operation. An online fundraising campaign was launched and teens who had taken classes at the theatre produced a benefit cabaret show to demonstrate their support.
At 2:15 p.m. on Dec. 31, a knock came on the door and a generous donor handed over a $4,000 check. Combined with other donations and pledges, the seemingly impossible goal had been met.
“Hugs and tears were shed and the staff raced to the bank to make the deposit,” according to a press release.
“The donor wanted to remain anonymous, but I don’t think he would mind me telling you that he is a regular ushering volunteer here at the theatre. You can often find him selling concessions for us, and he comes to just about every show — he loves the improv team,” said Wilson.
The funds raised will pay off existing debt, a portion of the credit line and cover expenses for the upcoming Feb. 12-March 6 run of the musical “She Loves Me,” as well as weekend performances of “Split Second Improv,” running Jan. 8-22 at 9 p.m., with a special, adults-only “blue” show at 11 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 9.
SSR board and staff will continue a restructuring process for long-term sustainability, but SSR has avoided the immediate need to shut its doors.
The decision made in early December to cancel the January production of “The Boy Who Cried Wolf” will remain. And as previously announced, Seattle-based theater simple will mount five performances of “Myth Understandings” for SSR subscribers, at SSR, Jan. 15-17. In addition, Book-It Repertory Theatre’s touring arm, Book-It All Over, will produce its own “Trickster Tales” for the schools that had already booked January student shows at SSR.
“A Rockin’ Thank You Party” is planned for 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23 at SSR. All donors are welcome, free of charge, with RSVP required. Non-donors can also attend at a cost of $30 per person, at the door or in advance. The evening will feature a special performance by Dan Connolly as well as SSR’s own Split Second Improv.
SSR is located at 16587 NE 74th St., upstairs at Redmond Town Center, next to Borders Books and Music. For information about upcoming events, call (425) 881-6777 or visit www.secondstoryrep.org.
