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The perilous condition of our state and national economy has occasioned unprecedented government and private efforts to stimulate recovery, including financial “bailouts” of numerous organizations deemed vital to the country’s overall health. The New Vic, held by many vital to our region’s cultural well-being, is endangered by current economic conditions. Over the years The New Vic has requested little corporate or grant support for its seasons, or even for single productions, largely because its board has attempted to support the program through earned income (therefore allowing more support to go to less established arts organizations). Since 1980 The New Vic’s Christmas Carol has played to over 80,000 theatre-goers and continues to sell out a full year in advance, thereby helping to support the balance of The New Vic’s entire program. The Vic is certainly unusual…if not unique…among area arts organizations with respect to the high percentage of its budget that comes from earned income; but during the past several years, even operating at an impressive percentage of its seating capacity, the Vic finds itself unable to completely support its fine program without additional support. During a time of transition that has seen them step aside from running the day-to-day operations of the company, the New Vic’s founders, Ted & Mary Jo Kistler, wish to ensure that the Vic’s legacy continues far into the twenty-first century in the capable hands of current artistic director James Furney and his wife Jennifer. As we’ve noted, A Christmas Carol supports itself and helps subsidize the rest of the season. But, like so many other organizations, in the arts and other fields, the Vic now finds itself in need of further aid. Sincerely,134 East Vine Street • Kalamazoo, Michiga |
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| Arnold Johnston Professor & Chair Emeritus Department of English Western Michigan University |
Deborah Ann Percy (Johnston) Principal (Retired) Maple St. Magnet Middle School for the Art Kalamazoo Public Schools |
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You can help by: Making a first-time, tax-deductible donation to the theatre; Making an additional 2009 tax deductible donation. For those of you with Christmas Carol reservations, pay for your tickets early this year…this would help with “cash-flow” difficulties; encourage others to aid in this effort. Attend “fund-raising events: “The Divas” & The Kings game. A note about support... The New Vic is a small venue. It was designed that way. Our community already has a fine community theatre and wonderful University and College venues. It is our intimacy and history of excellence which makes The New Vic experience viable and different from those which already exist in the community. The New Vic is one of very few Kalamazoo attractions that is truly unique. However, the devil is in the difference. In spite of our size, our expenses are not much different that venues 5 times larger. Royalties are the same, Insurance costs are the same, production costs are the same. There is no price-break for Season Tickets: $114 Each Producer: $100,000.00 or more Benefactor: $5,000 or more. Includes 6 Season tickets Angel: $1,000 or more. Includes 2 Season Tickets Patronage(s): $600 or more. Includes 2 Season Tickets Donor: Any donation under $600 For our handy-dandy downloadable donation form, just click on the PDF icon We should reflect on the fact that the New Vic Theatre has, through the years, played a central role in the Kalamazoo performing arts community, providing Michigan residents with insightful and provocative scripts and fielding some of the finest talent in the area. A live performance is a unique and engaging experience. Giving generously to the New Vic will ensure that the same quality theatre that has been enjoyed in the past will continue on into a new generation of theatre goers. Thank You for your Support! |
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A SUBJECT WE CAN NO LONGER IGNORE!
these items simply because we have fewer seats. The theatre’s budget is currently slightly over $225,000. Even operating at 100% capacity we cannot meet that budget. Nor can any performing arts organization in this day and age...we all need outside support. In spite of our best efforts, that “outside support” has traditionally been slight for The New Vic. Even so, it has always been our philosophy that we must put people in seats. We are here to entertain and we are determined that our efforts must never become a self-indulgent exercise funded exclusively by wealthy foundations. Still, we would like to provide a “balanced diet” in our offerings. Sugar and spice, ice cream and candy are fine, but occasionally we all need some broccoli. Broccoli, however, has a limited audience and the deficit must be covered. Also, because we own our facility there is no landlord or civic entity to pick up the tab when the roof needs repairing or the plumbing breaks down. None of these expenses has the slightest thing to do with the production of live theatre. This season is full of music and laughter. We’re on our way, now, to half-a-Century. Please don't just ride in the wagon when we need a push. We need your help. Thank you.
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