Midland's BUGS BUNNY ON BROADWAY Concert Postponed

In response to unprecedented financial challenges brought on by a struggling regional economy and reduced financial support, Midland Center for the Arts today regretfully announced the postponement of one of its concert performances.

The Midland Symphony Orchestra (MSO) presentation of "Bugs Bunny on Broadway," originally scheduled for May 16 and 17, 2009, has been postponed until further notice. Current ticket holders to "Bugs Bunny on Broadway" will be contacted by the MCFTA Ticket Office to obtain refunds or exchanges. The Ticket Office can be reached at (800) 523-7649 or (989) 631-8250.

"We were very excited to offer ‘Bugs Bunny on Broadway' this season as a way to attract families and new audiences," said Linda Basque, Vice President of Marketing and Development. "This world-class multimedia presentation had the promise of providing our audiences with an energized musical spectacle.

"However, when we considered the significant proportion of the concert, marketing and operational expenses the MSO would be required to bear, postponing the concert was the only prudent choice."

Midland Center for the Arts has enjoyed tremendous success in many programs this season, including most recently:
• Over 11,000 visitors at "Lizards & Snakes Alive!" at the Alden B. Dow Museum of Science & Art since its opening February 3

• A sold-out concert presented by MATRIX:MIDLAND (Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt) on February 21

• Almost 900 attendees at the Valentine's Day Midland Symphony Concert with violinst Judith Ingolfsson

However, in spite of these healthy ticket sales, the Center is still faced with significant financial challenges. "The combined revenue from admissions, tickets, tuition, rentals and gift shop sales only accounts for 30% of the overall income," Basque said. "It is the source of the other 70% of revenue support that has been significantly impacted and unfortunately, this requires us to consider budget reductions in the upcoming year."

That situation is changing daily. This past week the Center learned that it was facing a possible loss of $34,000 out of a $100,000 grant request to the Michigan Arts and Cultural Affairs because the State has zeroed out funding for that department in 2010. Due to economic uncertainties, individuals, sponsors and foundations are being forced to postpone and in some cases reduce their level of support.

At this time it is unclear if the Center will receive any financial assistance from the state or federal government or how the Center will benefit from the stimulus package. Requests for support for projects that fit the intent of the legislation have been submitted for review, including capital improvements that will themselves create employment opportunities.

"Midland Center for the Arts is proud of having provided affordable cultural and entertainment experiences for families and professionals for almost 40 years," said Bill Henninger, MCFTA President and CEO. "We will strive to continue this effort with the same dedication and passion that gave birth to and sustained this organization."

Midland Center for the Arts, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation formed under the laws of the State of Michigan incorporating six groups: Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art, MATRIX:MIDLAND, Midland County Historical Society, Midland Symphony Orchestra, Music Society and Theatre Guild. Activities at the Midland Center for the Arts are supported in part by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. For the latest Center news, visit our web site at www.mcfta.org.

Midland Center for the Arts · 1801 W. St. Andrews Rd. · Midland, MI 48640 · (989) 631-5930 · (989) 631-7890 fax · www.mcfta.org