<p>Surflight Theater a long running, beloved community theater on Long Beach Island, NJ is in extreme danger of closing. This theater has run summer stock for years and has been a great opportunity for both performers and theater lovers. Unfortunately, the fiscal crisis did not come to light until the off season for the NJ shore and so many, many visitors who have loved the children's programming and Mainstage productions are not "in the loop" or aware that help is direly needed. </p>
<p>Surflight cast out of NY and NJ annually and provided housing to their cast. It is a great opportunity to gain skill, credits and exposure. </p>
<p>I worked there for years. It isn’t a community theatre. That’s how it started, worked it’s way around and ended up as a 501 c3 about 10 years ago and has been working under various equity contracts for far longer than that. Surflight has been a great place for students to work in the summers for a long, long time. I’ve sent many of my students there over the years. </p>
<p>The folks at the top of the organization seem to have had some issues the past few years and have been subsequently let go. Now Surflight needs help to stay open. The Board is a group of great people who are really dedicated to the survival of this institution. Never easy to see this happen. I hope if you can help, you do.</p>
<p>I’m sorry to hear that about Surflight. I know so many kids who have done summers there through the years. The last time I was there was several years ago and coincidentally I got to see the son of one of our friends here on CC, jasmom, in a show. I know that many small theatres are finding it more and more difficult to stay afloat these days.</p>
<p>Just talking to jasdad after seeing this thread. Shared the news and my opinion that we needed to send a contribution. My son spent one summer there and had quite an exposure to the world of summer theater. All were very supportive and encouraging. I worry that other theaters are in similar jeopardy.</p>
<p>There is a “town meeting” at the Surflight this Sat at 9 am. I am planning on attending. According to everything I have read, unfortunately this is not simply the economic downturn, but bad financial decisions. A new Artistic Director has been brought in, with NYC credits as well as history with the well respected Papermill Playhouse in NJ. He has brought in a financial person to help right the ship (as it were). </p>
<p>Unfortunately, the year round population in this community is very small, so the assistance really does need to come from the summer visitors and theater lovers. Jasmom had the right idea. Anyone who who has benefitted (or even may benefit) needs to support these opportunities for our kids as well as keeping theater alive in our communities.</p>