All theater productions start somewhere!
Raising money for community-theater projects can be challenging, but it's necessary. Most community theaters would not exist without help from the community. There are various ways to go about raising money for charities and organizations, but not all ways will work when it comes to community theater. A different approach must be taken in order to draw out supporters.
Instructions
1. Contact local businesses for sponsorships. This is a great way to get large sums of money. In exchange, offer to put the business' name in the theater's printed programs and newspaper ads, and/or on a sign at the theater. A sponsor packet should consist of, an introduction letter, information about community theater in general and reasons to sponsor the theater.
2. Sell program ads to companies and other businesspeople. Keep the rates affordable, and place these ads in the program for each play. Approach all local businesses and even independent professionals, such as insurance agents and realtors.
3. Host a children's acting class or workshop. Contact a local actor to conduct the class, and split the proceeds, with half going to the teacher and half to the theater. This is also a great way to start training kids for future theater productions.
4. Set up booths at local fairs and festivals. Talk to everyone who passes by, and put out a donation jar. Bring lots of handouts promoting the theater. If you have an upcoming play, selling tickets at such an event is a good idea, too.
5. Host a Medieval fair. These are lots of fun, and promote acting and the theater. Put on small plays throughout the day and have booths set up for different events, such as children's games, face painting and historical information. Sell promotional items to raise money.
6. Set up an online magazine fundraiser, in which you sell magazine subscriptions at a discount and share in the profits. (Follow the link in Resources.) These are free, easy to do, and will help bring in money all year long. With virtually no work to upkeep, this is a great way to raise money for the theater while conducting other projects as well.
Tags: community theater, Contact local, local businesses, theater productions