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IT'S NEVER BEEN MORE EXPENSIVE TO MAKE THEATRE

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I'm going to be very honest in this email. It has never been this expensive to produce theatre. I'm sure you've seen and felt it just like me.

The price of gas has gone up, which means we need to pay more in delivery costs.

‍Groceries and rent prices have gone up, which means we need to raise artist pay.

‍Transportation costs have increased. Theatre equipment costs have gone up. The price of lumber and other materials continues to climb. While all of these expenses accrue we try our best at American Stage to keep our prices accessible, so the balance of how we pay for the art we share is tested.

‍I am trying to adjust budgets thoughtfully and save where we can, but when you're operating a non-profit theatre in Tampa Bay it's not just a matter of some financial jenga. The price of art cannot be quantified, and yet I have to do that every day.

‍I need your help!American Stage's annual Gala Under the Stars is almost two weeks away (April 14) and we still need to sell about 80 more tickets. If you are in the position to help and buy a $200 ticket please do! Even if you can't attend, you can still buy a ticket and we can gift it to an artist. Our Gala is the most impactful fundraising we do all year. Beyond that, it is a celebration of our pivotal artistic place in this community. I ask you to be a part of this momentous night.

You can click right here to get a Gala table or ticket

And I get not everyone can support in that way. Even if you are able to make a small one-time donation, any help is appreciated.

Your partner in art,

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Helen R. Murray

Producing Artistic Director