I sure hope you all had the opportunity to see Mamma Mia! It was a fabulous show and now easily ranks in the top 5 for gross ticket sales in the 17-year history of the Sioux Empire Community Theatre.
On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank the talented cast and crew with a special shout out to Director, Kim Bartling, Choreographer, Rebekah Merriman, Music Director, Amy Morrison and Costumer, Kendra Dexter. I also want to acknowledge the cooperation and professional expertise of the Washington Pavilion staff that continue to demonstrate their commitment to our ongoing success as a community theatre.
I also want to acknowledge the hard work, passion and commitment of our Executive Director, Robin Byrne and his staff, Bookkeeper, Trina Kuper and Admin. Assistant, Kristy Morris, who roll up their sleeves everyday to make our organization work – and finally, to my fellow board members who continue to give of their time and expertise and who are never hesitant to step up and do what it takes.
As I mentioned in my inaugural message when I took over as President of the Board early this year, I have two primary goals – goal 1 - improving the quality of our productions and goal 2 - securing our financial future. I think we are well on our way to achieving goal 1, with the new partnership with the Washington Pavilion. Ensuring our long-term financial viability will be an even bigger challenge and it certainly won’t happen overnight.
We have learned some hard lessons and now know that community theatre cannot survive on ticket sales alone. We need to improve and expand our culture of giving and we are currently working on a comprehensive strategic plan to do just that. We need more monthly contributions, small and large. We need more show sponsors and straight up corporate donations. We need to establish an endowment.
Our financial position today is stronger than it has ever been, but it is not guaranteed. I am committed to doing what I can in the time I have as President, to make sure that we dedicate the time, energy and resources toward creating a financially solvent and sustainable organization.
Sincerely,
Rick Weiland
Board President
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