In this unprecedented time for everyone, our daily routines are quickly shifting as the world responds to COVID-19. As people self-quarantine, and theatre performances, concerts, and freelance gigs are put on hold, people across all sectors are experiencing lost wages, delayed work, and are having to shift their businesses to adapt to a new normal.
Although some larger theatres and licensing companies have already begun to adapt to the changes and bring some readings and small performances online, there are many unknowns that we all face in the upcoming weeks and months.
The widespread cancellation of in-person events has affected many non-profit arts organizations who rely on ticket sales, fundraising events, workshops, classes, and other live performance events to pay their bills. Now, more than ever, it's important to offer support to impacted groups if you are able.
The Cumberland Theatre would love to reopen our doors in June with The Great Gatsby. As you know we have had to cancel two of our main stage productions, The Flick and The Cake. It not only affects us and the artist who were hired for those shows artistically, but it affects all of us financially. With no ticket money coming in, our funds are quickly depleting. If we are to reopen this summer, or this year, for that matter, we will need your help.
We have applied for grants and loans through the state and federal government, but so have many other worthy non-profits – of many disciplines – and there is only so much money to go around. Our regular staff, included our two Artistic Directors, have been furloughed to keep expenses to a minimum.
But, eventually, the money will be gone. That is why we are asking for a contribution from you, our loyal patron, no matter low large or small to help us get through this difficult time, so that when the world rights itself, we will still be able to bring you the quality professional entertainment we have all been so blessed to have enjoyed in Western Maryland.
Not only will be you helping the Cumberland Theatre, but you will be helping all the professional actors, designers, and directors who have lost jobs and desperately need the work for the remainder of this year. You will be helping the youth actors in our community, who were heartbroken when we had to postpone our Stars of Tomorrow production of Cats after their high school shows were abruptly cancelled. You will be helping the citizens of our community escape reality for a few hours and enjoy themselves.
Please click the link to the right if you are will to donate online, or mail your contribution to:
Cumberland Theatre, 101 North Johnson Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
We are all in this together and what a sad world it will be if there is no art to return to when this is all over. Thank you for your love, support and patronage over the years.
THE SHOW MUST GO ON!
WE NEED YOUR HELP!
