<p>Unfortunately the failing economy is taking its toll on regional theaters. the following is taken from the North Shore Music Theater site. It seems that they need $400,000 by Dec 29, and 4 million more by spring in order to launch their 2009 season. Very sad.</p>
<p>NSMT launches "Save Our Theatre Appeal."
The not-for-profit North Shore Music Theatre (NSMT), faced with reality of the current economic crisis, announced on December 29 that without immediate philanthropic support it will close its doors after 55 years of providing performing arts and educational programming to millions. The Theatre's leadership is urging the public to show its support by purchasing tickets (CLICK HERE) to the remaining 13 performances of Disney High School Musical 2, which runs through January 11th. Additionally, philanthropic gifts can be made via the Theatre's secure website (CLICK HERE) or through the Box Office at 978-232-7200.</p>
<p>This is extremely bad news. I would strongly encourage anyone who can to buy tickets for the current show or donate any amount. This is an exceptional theater, it would be a huge loss for regional theater. Very sad and shocking there is no $$ to fund the arts when in need.</p>
<p>This isn't just about the economy, but has a lot to do with poor decisions made by the people in charge... like firing the entire education department staff (who migrated to Boston Children's Theatre and took most of the kids with them) and replacing A Christmas Carol with HSM2. Apparently several prominent members of the Board of Trustees have stepped down because of those decisions, among others. Also attendance has been way down all season; the only show that sold out a good portion of the time was Bye Bye Birdie. =</p>
<p>This is especially upsetting to me because I pretty much grew up at NSMT, worked there in high school, did workshops and classes and etc. there... actually a NSMT show was what inspired me to get into theatre. I am crossing my fingers that they scrape up the money to stay open.</p>
<p>Perhaps members here can help spread the word.</p>
<p>Tomorrow night (Wednesday, January 7th) more than 60 kids who have performed at NSMT are putting together a benefit on the mainstage of the theatre to raise money.</p>
<p>It would be great if everyone who lives in the area could come out for this event and would let their friends know about this.</p>
<p>There are no tickets and guests can make a donation at the door.
The 730pm performance will last about 90mins.</p>
<p>Understandable many people not in the area now... but hey, we do what we can... and those who are should really come out and make show their support and make any kind of donation... Its a great place and for the most part produces great shows... Even HSM2 is enjoyable believe it or not... my D has gone twice already</p>
<p>Hi,
I was hoping people would log on to vote for NSMT....Virgin will donate $25K to the non profit that has the most votes. This is the theatre that gave my daughter and many of her friends their start in professional theatre and they are closing due to finances.</p>
<p>Thanks for the heads up tashmu, I voted. It should be noted that the voting ends Feb 6 and we are in like 5th place for the grant! Please vote everyone, all you have to do is tell your email. This link is more direct than the one above & goes right to NSMT's webpage. Let's do our part to help a struggling regional theatre! It won't cost a thing :D</p>