PNT Announces End-of-Year Campaign

With just six weeks left to go in the calendar year, Performance Network Theatre, like many organizations, is kicking its fundraising into high gear.  But this year, the professional theatre will do things a bit differently, and plans to set weekly targets in order to meet its overall goal.

Executive Director Carla Milarch says: "I was recently on the air with the pledge drive for WEMU, and I was amazed at how effective their hourly goal structure was in keeping the drive on target.  This year, Performance Network will shoot to raise $10,000 a week - or $2,000 a day - in order to meet our crucial end of the year goal.

Performance Network's 2010 fundraising goal for the calendar year is $315,000, and it has raised over $250,000 to date.  Now, it must raise $65,000 before the end of the year to keep its ambitious season singing.  Performance Network's 2010 season includes the largest musical it has mounted since 2007, as well as the Pulitzer-Prize winner "The Piano Lesson" which also boasts a large cast for the little theatre.

As added motivation to PNT supporters to help it meet its weekly targets, the theatre will offer special incentives each time it reaches a weekly goal.  Special discounts, ticket giveaways to community groups and other surprises are in store.  Artistic Director David Wolber adds with a twinkle "We're artists after all, so we're planning some creative ways to make holiday giving even more fun and rewarding!"

Campaign updates and incentives will be announced via email in the PNT e-newsletter list, on the theatre's website, and on its Facebook page.  Supporters can "like" Performance Network to receive regular updates in their Facebook news feed. 

To begin the incentive program with a bang, Performance Network has promised to hold a $15 ticket sale for all remaining shows in the 2010-2011 season on November 23rd, if the weekly $10,000 goal in met by this Sunday, November 21. Donations are currently at $6,000 for the week.

Donations can be made securely online at www.performancenetwork.org, by calling the theatre at 734-663-0681, or by mail at 120 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104. Donations are fully tax-deductible.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's only resident, professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and The Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside Festival of New Works and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.