Because I’m sorta obsessed on this, being a subscriber who’s been treated poorly:
- From the “So Why Couldn’t You Give Me That Donation Letter…” Department: It looks like the Playhouse is moving closer to filing for bankruptcy (nice to keep the subscribers informed… oh, you didn’t). What’s interesting here is the bit about how they only want large donors: “Eric Andrist, co-founder of the Musical Theatre Guild, is one of those who stepped forward to help raise money for the Playhouse, setting up a Facebook account and raising what he said was $18,000 in pledges. Now he’s suspended fundraising and has called off plans for an online auction, critical of what he called “hurdles” put in his way. Andrist said he and others believe the playhouse is snubbing small-scale supporters and is unwilling to try anything new, including his idea for online links allowing people to donate with credit and debit cards. When the playhouse closed, Eich [the Executive Director] said they were touched by many offers of help, but small- scale fundraising wouldn’t solve the problem.” As for the subscribers, Eich said, “We’ll find some way to take care of the subscribers who gave us their loyalty and confidence … and I’m pretty sure they won’t be disappointed.” Hint: This subscriber already is, due to the lack of communication, and has subscribed elsewhere.
- From the “So What is Sheldon Doing?” Department: What originally prompted this post was an article in Playbill today about Sheldon Epps mounting a Ray Charles musical on Broadway (the one that had disappointing reviews when it played the Playhouse in 2007). Now, the Playhouse has done some great new musicals over its years. Some came close to Broadway (“Vanities”), some have gone to London but surprisingly not to Broadway (“Sister Act”), and some should have gone to Broadway but didn’t (“Mask”). But the last thing Broadway needs is another jukebox musical.
- From the “And What About The Building?” Department: At least the building is getting some use. The facility itself is being rented out for some performing arts events, but bringing in precious little to the Playhouse itself. At least the restaurant there (“Elements”) got a good review.
