October, 2022
Dear Friend of Tacoma Little Theatre:
We were so excited to begin our 104th Season, entitled “Something to Captivate Everyone”, when we were reminded that COVID is still having a tremendous impact on our operations and our community. The opening of Steel Magnolias was delayed by one week after several cast and crew tested positive for COVID. Because of this, the show was cut short by one weekend and caused a loss of almost $10,000. The arts continue to be one of the hardest hit industries and TLT continues to keep the safety of our patrons, casts, crew, and staff our top concern. Despite taking every precaution, the reality of COVID makes the recovery of live performing arts a difficult task. More so than any other year, your financial support will help make sure that TLT will navigate the recovery process and continue to bring the performing arts to our community.
“My wife and I really enjoyed the play. The casting was perfect, and the acting was brilliant. The sets were marvelous as always. Could not have been better. Another great TLT performance.”
–A TLT patron after attending Steel Magnolias
It is a joy to be back presenting live theatre to you. Each of the seven shows in our mainstage season were selected to take you on a journey through all the emotions imaginable. Once Steel Magnolias was able to open, it was a wonderful way to start off the season. We can’t wait to have you follow the mystery in Murder on the Orient Express, laugh at the holidays with A Christmas Story, experience some great cooking in Po Boy Tango, relive the 80’s music scene with Rock of Ages, feel the pains of romance in Significant Other, and be brought to the edge of your seat in The Shawshank Redemption.
“I honestly have to say that I was SO impressed with everything that you guys did working with all of those wonderful and talented kids. The production was impressive, the songs were well performed, and everyone looked like they were having the time of their lives up there. I am not going to lie; I cried a little bit and so enjoyed my evening. Thank you and your education team again for all of your hard work and dedication.” –A parent of a scholarship student after attending The Little Mermaid, Jr.
TLT provides the South Puget Sound region with an education program serving youth and adults in the community year-round, helping them reach their creative potential. Last year we returned to in-person classes and also welcomed our new Education Director, Stephanie Kroschel. Stephanie has continued to ensure that TLT offers the best in performing arts education. Last season we saw our enrollment increase and our Summer Camp productions of The Little Mermaid Jr. and The Lion King Jr. were filled to capacity. TLT is committed to providing access to performing arts education to every child in our community. Your generous donations helped 35 students discover the joy of the arts, who otherwise may never have had the opportunity.
“The experience is always great! Everyone is friendly and very efficient. The quality of the productions is always amazing! Thank you for the hard work!”—A TLT Patron after attending The Wizard of Oz
Your generous donations have helped sustain TLT and the performing arts in our region for over 104 years. It is only through the continued support of our community members that the arts can thrive. We offer a range of donation options that are listed at the bottom of this letter. You can even pledge your donation amount over a monthly or quarterly payment schedule. If you are interested in establishing a legacy gift of support through planned (estate) giving or stock transfers, please contact me directly. Remember that any amount helps us, from $1 to $10,000. TLT is a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and your donation may be fully tax-deductible (please check with your tax advisor).
If you have already donated to us this season, thank you! If you are considering donating to us now, thank you! To donate, click the button on this post or, to donate over the phone, you may call me personally at 253-272-2281. We always look forward to having the opportunity to speak with you. You are the reason that TLT continues to thrive. Thank you so much for your continued support and patronage.
All my best,
Chris Serface
Managing Artistic Director