Utah Shakespeare Festival Receives $80,000 Challenge Grant

The Utah Shakespeare Festival announced tonight at the opening performance of The Winter's Tale, a generous gift from the Southern Utah Foundation. The Foundation will match dollar-for-dollar up to $80,000 donated to the Festival between now and December 31.

Both founded in 1961, the Utah Shakespeare Festival and the Southern Utah Foundation have a long history. Over the last 15 years the Festival has received numerous gifts ranging from $2000 to $5000.

"This is by far the largest donation we have ever received from the foundation, and we are thrilled to be the recipient of this challenge gift. So many people in this community have made it possible for the Festival to thrive. It's an honor to be recognized by the Southern Utah Foundation," said Development Director Jyl Shuler.

The Southern Utah Foundation was created 50 years ago in order to support, grow and enhance Cedar City and the surrounding area. The Foundation's vision has always been focused on improving the economic impact of leading businesses in the community. Their generosity has touched local schools, hospitals and the arts.

However, this year the Foundation is being dissolved and according to the current president Scott Truman, he believes that the Utah Shakespeare Festival can use this challenge gift as a tool to build momentum for future fundraising initiatives. He sees the Festival organization as a leader of business in Cedar City and wants to support the Festival's entertaining, enriching, and educational offerings.