For Immediate Release

$1,000,000 Matching Challenge Announced for Hartford Stage Raise the Curtain Fundraising Campaign

Hartford, CT, February 4, 2021 – Hartford Stage is excited to announce a $1,000,000 Matching Challenge for its ongoing Raise the Curtain fundraising campaign. Thanks to a coalition of generous donors, every contribution made to Hartford Stage between now and June 30th will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $1,000,000. The funds will support the Raise the Curtain campaign which is intended to sustain the theatre through the pandemic and return to live productions on stage in Fall 2021. The campaign has raised over $3.5 Million with a goal to raise $6 Million.

The donors who have issued the matching challenge include long-time Board members and supporters — Jill Adams & Bill Knight, Don & Marilyn Allan, Sue Ann Collins, Rick & Beth Costello, The Richard P. Garmany Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, Janice & David Klein, Belle K. Ribicoff, the Pryor Family, Brooke Whittemore, and Ted Whittemore.

“I’ve had many proud moments in my 39 years associated with Hartford Stage but these past few months have been some of the most remarkable, showcasing the true generosity of support from individuals and corporations for this theatre,” said Chrissie Ripple, past Board President and co-chair of the Raise the Curtain Campaign. Alongside Ripple, co-chairs of the campaign include past Board President Walter Harrison, Secretary Michael D. Nicastro, and Governing Director Don Allan.

Hartford Stage was forced to cancel performances in March 2020 at the onset of the pandemic and subsequently canceled all in-person performances for the entire 2020-2021 season, eliminating over half of its revenue base. The theatre was forced to eliminate over 70% of its staff.

Hartford Stage recently announced a virtual spring fundraising gala which will include an exclusive concert by The Bacon Brothers – Michael & Kevin Bacon. Proceeds from the event will contribute to the matching challenge.

“We call on all who believe that Hartford Stage is a vital arts institution in the region to consider making a contribution to support this momentous challenge. Now is the moment to support the theatre you love – and make sure that Hartford Stage remains one of the crown jewels of the Hartford region. Every gift is meaningful. Thank you for your support,” said Board President David R. Jimenez.

Donations to the Raise the Curtain Matching Challenge can be made at www.hartfordstage.org.

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