Urgent Call for Help: Columbia Children’s Theatre Faces Uncertain Future
Columbia, S.C. — In a shocking twist, the beloved Columbia Children’s Theatre finds itself grappling with a financial crisis that could change the lives of many young performers and families in the Midlands. For the very first time in two long decades, this treasured institution is asking for urgency and community support to keep the magic alive.
According to the theatre, it must raise an ambitious $50,000 by midnight on January 1st. If this goal isn’t met, the future of the kids’ theatre could hang in the balance. Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson took to Facebook to announce the plight, sharing heartfelt concerns about the theatre’s future and its recent struggles.
A New Home and New Challenges
Last year, Richland Mall closing left the theatre homeless, forcing an urgent scramble to find a new location. This unexpected turn of events unveiled a whole new set of financial challenges. On top of that, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have thrown additional hurdles into their path.
Stevenson expressed his challenges candidly, stating, “We’ve taken significant steps to restructure the organization and strengthen our financial footing,” but the costs associated with the transition have thrown them into a critical predicament. Currently, the theatre is harbored at a site on Chris Drive in West Columbia, where they face the ongoing struggle of not having enough performances to generate revenue.
Surging Costs and The Fight to Keep Going
To sum it up simply, they are renting two spaces that aren’t exactly bringing in money. As an illustration of their struggles, Stevenson mentioned needing to pay for essential props out of his own pocket. “I have put my entire retirement savings from when I was in Chicago into this company, so HELP!” exclaimed Stevenson, setting the stage for an urgent plea for assistance.
As they dive deeper into the theatre world, the costs have risen exponentially. “Our problem now is we are renting two spaces, and none of those are really generating revenue,” he added in an emotionally charged statement. With rising rents, their financial responsibilities have nearly tripled because they have to rent out local high school theatres and collaborate with partners like Harbison Theatre.
Community Support is Key
To keep the dream alive, Stevenson is reaching out various school districts, especially District One and District Two, where they have established considerable partnerships. They are also eyeing the newly opened performing arts center, hoping it could provide some relief in these trying times. “We are largely going into auditoriums with the school districts, so really any place in town,” he said.
If they don’t meet the $50,000 target by New Year’s Day, they could risk losing their theatre for the time being. While Stevenson clarified that this doesn’t mean an immediate closure, it would likely force drastic cuts — “one of us would have to absorb their duties if we lose a staff member,” he explained.
Celebrating 20 Years of Magic
20th anniversary in Columbia, Stevenson is holding on to hope for a miracle, even as they gear up for a full slate of holiday season shows. He remains optimistic and committed to providing joy and artistic opportunities for children in the community.
If you’re inspired to help, the theatre is inviting community members to contribute to their fundraising campaign. Whether it’s a small donation or a larger contribution, every little bit can go a long way toward securing a future for Columbia Children’s Theatre.
As we enter this festive season, let’s rally together to keep the magic alive at the Columbia Children’s Theatre. After all, what better gift can we give to our children than the chance to experience the joy of performance?
