ACT Ends 2009 With First Surplus in More than Four Years

A Contemporary Theatre ends 2009 with a surplus of at least $70,000 (pre-audit), the first in more than four years for the 45-year Seattle institution.

Adding to the numbers reported July 7, 2009, ACT has acquired an additional 400 new donors since July, for a total of 600 by December 31, 2009, which is a 20% increase over the 2008 donor base. ACT showed a 39% increase in individual giving. Additionally, single ticket sales increased more than 23% and the new Basic Monthly Membership, the first-of-its-kind program providing patrons with an All-Access Pass to nearly everything on stage at ACT, has amassed more than 350 members since its launch in July 2009. These increased contributions and growth in audiences, combined with strategic budget cuts, lean and efficient productions, a fully-integrated, intelligent and agile business plan, has eradicated the 2009 $780,000 deficit in one year.

"2009 marked a turning point for the theatre as we achieved the first step in stabilizing the institution and setting the foundation for a sustainable future," said Executive Director Carlo Scandiuzzi. "By adapting innovative, fiscally responsible solutions without compromising production quality or sacrificing jobs, ACT was able to produce more with less, grow audiences, and increase individual donor support during the worst economic climate in two generations. This is an outstanding testament to the community and ACT patrons' belief in ACT and to the ACT leadership and staff, with whom this would not have been made possible without their dedication, passion, and resourceful management."

"The community response to our innovation and vision has been incredible!" said ACT Board of Trustees President Brian Turner. "In 2009, ACT emerged as the center for the arts in downtown Seattle. Inspired by Carlo Scandiuzzi's leadership, the community rallied to support the vision of Artistic Director Kurt Beattie. We thank our community for their faith and generous support."

Located in the heart of downtown Seattle and serving a population of curious, open-minded, and brave audiences, ACT - A Contemporary Theatre is the only local theatre in Seattle dedicated to producing contemporary work with promising playwrights and local performing artists since 1965. A theatre of new ideas, ACT serves as a cultural engine that makes plays, dance, music, and film that touch us. Because contemporary life demands examination, ACT is driven to inspire and strengthen our diverse community through works that advance our understanding of human life. ACT is an interactive community where artists and the public witness, contemplate, and engage in dialogue on today's thought-provoking issues, ideas and art, presented with intelligence, insight, and humor.

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