Willow Theatre in Concord and Martinez May Be Forced To Shut Down

The Willows Theatre Company, for more than 30 years one of the Bay Area's most popular performing arts groups, announced today that it is faced with a financial crisis that may force shutting down its main-stage facility in Concord and a cabaret in Martinez, perhaps forever, unless it can raise $350,000 by Nov. 1.

"For more than a year we've been struggling to achieve a balanced budget but the reality is that the recession has had a major impact on our operations," said Charles Lewis, board president, and Richard Elliott, artistic director, in a joint statement. "We've cut staff, sharply reduced expenses and stretched every scarce dollar, but clearly it is not enough. Any further cuts could put us out of business for good. Clearly, we need help."

"Unless we get an infusion of cash quickly, we cannot sustain our operations and continue to present the high-quality shows our patrons are accustomed to," Lewis warned. "Donations from our patrons and loyal supporters could help us get through the immediate crisis and pave the way to recovery."  With a growing number of bills, he estimated that the company would need at least $350,000 to survive.

Like so many theater companies, The Willows has been hit hard by a substantial reduction in grants from foundations and corporations as well as donations from individuals, Lewis said. In addition, ticket sales, which cover only about 40 percent of expenses, have fluctuated due mainly to economic conditions.  He said the board is reviewing a number of options short of shutting down, but none appear to solve the immediate financial problem.

The company is accepting donations at the Willows Theatre, 636 Ward Street, Martinez, CA 94553, Phone (925) 798-1300.

The Willows began producing shows at its 210--seat theater in the Willows Shopping Center in Concord 33 years ago during which it has won more than 50 awards, including those for premieres of new works. Three years ago the company opened the 192-seat Willows Cabaret at the Campbell Theatre in downtown Martinez. Its administrative offices, rehearsal studios and scene shop are also in Martinez.  For more information on the Willow Theatre, please visit www.willowstheatre.com.