March 10, 2008

We need you!

As Santa Barbara's longest running professional theatre, Ensemble Theatre Company is one of the region's top cultural resources. This past season, we have attracted some of the country's top actors, directors, and designers. And we have heard from many of you that you appreciate Ensemble's new artistic excellence.

And we have now introduced a new student matinee series, which is introducing professional theatrical artistry to Santa Barbara area high school students. For many of them, it is their first exposure to professional theatre.

Our December annual fund drive raised $65,000 toward our $100,000 goal. We must raise $35,000 in much-needed support. We cannot continue to bring quality professional theatre to Santa Barbara without your help.

Santa Barbara deserves a professional theatre of excellence.

Ticket sales account for only 50% of Ensemble's operating budget. For us to keep ticket prices affordable, we need your help! The cost of producing excellent theatre here in Santa Barbara including artist fees and housing, beautiful sets, costumes, and lighting is equivalent to producing an off-Broadway play in New York.

Please help us achieve our fundraising goal and help keep professional theatre in Santa Barbara.

With thanks in advance,

Jonathan Fox
Executive Artistic Director

Derek A. Westen
President, Board of Directors