Park Square Theatre Announces Fundraising Updates

Park Square Theatre is nearing the finish line on its goal to build a Second Stage in the Hamm Building in Saint Paul. The Next Stage Campaign, a comprehensive effort to transform Park Square, will enhance the theatre's ability to serve the community by investing in its facility, capitalizing its operations with working capital and artistic innovation funds, and doubling its artistic output.

“We’re truly honored by how our audiences are helping us meet the challenge of undertaking an expansion during a stagnant economy,” said Michael-jon Pease, Director of External Relations. “In these times, it’s a true vote of confidence when someone gives, whether it’s $100 or $100,000. Trust like that inspires and invigorates our work.”

“We have architects, engineers, legal advisors and our project manager on payroll now, taking us into final design,” said Artistic Director Richard Cook. “And I have artists with fantastic projects waiting in the wings. As soon as we reach the last $600,000 in gifts and pledges, we are ready to go!”

The first physical change has already taken place – a $500,000 remodeling of its 350-seat proscenium auditorium. With two stages, Park Square will double its artistic programming from 10 to 18 shows per season, attracting an annual audience of 100,000 to downtown. That audience will translate into $100 million in economic activity over the next 20 years.

For more information on the Next Stage Campaign, visit Park Square’s website at http://www.parksquarewhatsnext.org/ns-tour.php.