Redmond’s SecondStory Rep Facing Bankruptcy

Robert Bogue, Melinda Wallace in SSR’s “The Emperor’s New Clothes” Photo by Tiger Mountain Photo

Just received the latest round of depressing news from an arts organization: Redmond’s SecondStory Rep may become the first mid-size theatre company in the area to be completely done in by the recession.


From the press release:

SecondStory Repertory, Redmond ‘s only professional theater company, faces the most severe financial crisis of its decade-long life. This beloved theatrical producer and presenter has entertained tens of thousands from its convenient second story home inside Redmond Town Center . Now, in its 11th season, the theater is faced with the daunting challenge of raising $80,000 by December 31, 2009 or entering bankruptcy and ceasing all operations immediately.

The company’s budget shortfall has been increasing since 2006, despite valiant fundraising efforts. Compounding the decline in arts funding, ticket sales have been depressed by as much as 40 percent for SSR’s children’s theatre presentations. If you have the ability to help out the company financially, please visit their website here.