FreeFall Theatre Raises Nearly $275,000 To Repair Hurricane Damage

After suffering devastating damage in Hurricane Irma, freeFall Theatre's campaign to raise the funds necessary for recovery and reconstruction has received almost $275,000 in six weeks. Donations from nearly 700 donors, successfully met the $100,000 matching gift challenge made by local philanthropists Kate Tiedemann and Ellen Cotton.

"We're so pleased that our gift, combined with hundreds of others from around the community, will allow freeFall to not only restore their theatre space but emerge from this challenge stronger than ever before," Tiedemann said.

Construction is well underway on the roof and interior of the black box theatre. Despite an ongoing dispute over insurance coverage of the extensive water damage and numerous other unforeseen costs and delays, freeFall anticipates completing the work in time to open The Glass Menagerie in the theatre on January 27.

"We are grateful beyond words for the outpouring of community support and for Kate and Ellen's leadership," said freeFall Artistic Director Eric Davis. "Despite the significant challenges and increasing costs, we're now confident we have the funds necessary to complete the repairs quickly while still producing our full 2017/18 season as planned."

The first two productions of the season are being staged in freeFall's auditorium, which has received temporary upgrades for use as a theatrical venue. The Little Prince will run November 25 to December 24.

For tickets or to contribute, visit www.freefalltheatre.com.