Balagan Theatre Closes in Seattle; DOGFIGHT to Go on at ArtsWest

Balagan Theatre's Board of Directors has made the extremely difficult decision to close its doors permanently. With the appointment of a new Executive Director in August, a high priority was placed on working together to understand the overall financial situation of the theatre while looking toward future opportunities.

"This is not a decision that the board took lightly," said Board President Jim Griffin. "When viewing the big picture of our overall financial health, this was a difficult conclusion, but ultimately a responsible fiscal action to take."

With a new comprehensive understanding of the financial situation facing Balagan, the board has decided that the best course of action is to cease work on the current season immediately.

Balagan Theatre's co-production of Dogfight with ArtsWest will continue, produced solely by ArtsWest. The board and staff know the show will continue to be a strong production with the team at ArtsWest at the helm.

"I want to thank the Seattle theater community and audiences for their support and enthusiasm through the years, and as individuals, we will continue to cheer for the success of our local arts scene," said Executive Director Danielle Franich.

Financial setbacks were encountered as the theatre pushed to grow, while not having a permanent home for operations. This decision was reached after completing an in-depth review of the theatre's current debts, planned income, as well as the planned general operating budget for the year. The theater owes more money than it was projected to make by continuing the season, and the board is still working out how to address creditors.

Balagan as a whole has been honored to work for the last 8 years in the Seattle community producing fantastic shows like Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog, Spring Awakening, Avenue Q, August: Osage County and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The partnerships, performers, designers, directors, supporters and audiences have made Balagan a theatre company with a reputation for pushing the envelope and searching for the next exciting and challenging work.

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