Columbia’s Theaters Face Uncertain Futures
Columbia is buzzing with anticipation as three of its foundational live theater companies face big challenges and exciting changes just before the new year. Trustus Theatre, the only professional theater company for adults in the city, is looking at a hefty $1.5 million price tag to spruce up its downtown home in the Vista neighborhood. Without this renovation, Executive Artistic Director Jessica Fichter warns they might have to pack their bags and move elsewhere.
Trustus Theatre: A Call for Support
Established back in 1985, Trustus Theatre has carved a niche in the artistic scene of South Carolina. Known for its bold and avant-garde productions, Trustus dives deep into complex stories and stakes its claim as the place for performances you won’t find on a big Broadway stage. This season, they’ve already spotlighted thought-provoking pieces like “What the Constitution Means to Me,” and they’re gearing up for the Elton John/Tim Rice classic “Aida” in the summer.
But all that creative energy needs a proper home, and Fichter expressed her concern: “We’re battling against time and funds to maintain a space that can support our artistic ventures.” The theater’s building, standing since 1936, runs into numerous issues such as electrical and plumbing problems, plus the need for better lighting and seating. The community’s financial support is crucial, as ticket sales only cover about 50% of their budget. With expenses exceeding revenues, fundraising efforts will ramp up to secure Trustus’s future.
Columbia Children’s Theatre: A Home with Challenges
Meanwhile, over at Columbia Children’s Theatre, the situation is equally pressing but heartwarming. Since 2005, they’ve been a staple for kids and families in the community. But after a sudden exit from their old home at Richland Mall, they found themselves without a venue for performances in West Columbia. “It was a scramble,” admits Marketing Director William Mitchell. With nowhere to perform and thousands of costumes and sets needing storage, they are calling upon the community to help raise $50,000 to keep the lights on through this transition.
Activities like camps and classes are essential not just for entertaining audiences but for building the confidence and skills of young performers. “When we were forced to move, we didn’t just lose a theater; we lost a way to connect with our kids,” lamented Mitchell, highlighting their critical need for support.
Town Theatre: A Century of Storytelling
Now, Town Theatre, the oldest community theater in Columbia, is celebrating a significant milestone as it marks 100 years since it was founded! While the building also underwent pandemic-related disruptions, renovations have kicked back into gear. These upgrades aim to refresh the lobby and auditorium, bringing a much-needed facelift to the aging building.
According to Executive Director Katherine Scruggs, being secure in their building is an advantage many theaters don’t share, allowing Town Theatre to weather the storm of previous years and emerge strong. “We can host rehearsals, hold classes, and build our sets all in one place, which is a massive plus,” she said with a smile.
The Importance of Community Support
Each of these organizations brings something unique to the table. Trustus Theatre provides cutting-edge productions, Columbia Children’s Theatre inspires the next generation, while Town Theatre delivers hearty community entertainment steeped in a rich history. The one thread that unites them all is the unwavering need for community backing, whether through attendance at shows or donations.
As Columbia continues to navigate its post-pandemic reality, it’s clear that these theaters are vital hubs of creativity and storytelling that enrich the lives of everyone in the city. Now is the time for the community to rally together and ensure these cultural gems shine for years to come.
