New American Theater is struggling to find funding for its upcoming production of Pump Boys and Dinettes, and its planned debut may not happen if it can’t find needed resources.
According to a press release, the new theater company is about $10,000 short of its $55,000 goal. Faced with a challenging economy, the company may have to cancel its first mainstage production as a result.
“It’s very discouraging,” said producing artistic director Brian Becker. “We are so close to getting the show up, but time is running out and the donors are scarce.”
The company has been fundraising for over a year, and Becker said he and a core group of supporters have personally invested all they can.
Becker hopes individual and corporate donations pick up quickly. The company has extended its “Founders Club” membership program with hopes that will encourage more donations.
Founders Club members get their names prominently displayed on lobby signage, in addition to annual membership benefits.
Becker says the company will continue to move forward with the show, and he remains optimistic that the community will pull through and support this new venture. Becker has employed about 10 people for this production, mostly local.
What happens if the goal isn’t reached?
“I can’t even think about that,” Becker said. “We are staying positive and hoping for the best.”
Donations can be made on the theater website or by regular mail to New American Theater, P.O. Box 3277, St. Petersburg, FL 33731.
