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Willie Bobo Production
Group
Fundraising Case Statement
Willie Bobo Production Group
451 West 36th St. 1b
New York, NY 10018-6337
Phone: (212) 563-0115
Fax: (646) 349-2728
Email:
williebobopro@mindspring.com
Have you met
Willie Bobo?
Willie Bobo Production Group (WBPG) is a
501(c)(3) not for profit organization located in the heart of Manhattan’s
Theatre District. It is the mission of Willie Bobo Production Group to
present works that are humanly engaging to a diverse audience. WBPG is
dedicated to bringing together artists and professionals of differing
disciplines to promote the performing arts.
We differ from theatrical groups by
focusing on the business aspect of production, while still maintaining the
highest standard of artistic excellence. To that end we are committed to
balancing our operating budget and ensuring that WBPG operates as a
financially sound institution. This is accomplished through a variety of
successful fundraising activities, an aggressive approach toward marketing
and advertising, and a solid financial approach to resource management. We
began this dream knowing that we are good artists, but we intend to run
this company as good business people.
Past, Present, and Future.
Willie Bobo Production Group was founded
in October of 2001 on the principles of artistic freedom, integrity, and
independence. Since our inception we have produced Main Stage productions
of David Rabe’s Hurlyburly and Donald Wollner’s Badgers. Our
Experimental Cabaret Series has generated music and comedy events
throughout the city, as well as our Christmas production of Jeff Goode’s
The Eight: Reindeer Monologues.
Our current project is a production of
Jonathan Marc Sherman’s Veins and Thumbtacks. This dark comedy hits
the boards in February 2003. It is being produced in association with
Amici Ensemble Productions.
Along with three more Main Stage
productions by year end 2003, WBPG has a number of projects in
development. Our “Reading Series” will explore new and previously produced
theatrical works, “The Meet and Greet Network” will encourage a greater
exchange of ideas within the off-Broadway community, and “The Performing
Arts Eductation Program” will send touring shows and actor/teachers into
schools throughout the city.
By year end 2004 we plan to develop and
market a full off-Broadway series. This will include workshop productions
of new works and the re-examination of some classics.
Our Thanks to Friends and Neighbors.
Willie Bobo Production Group relies
heavily upon the members of community that we serve. None of this would
be possible if not for their help and support .
Our audience base is strong and
consistently growing. Our foundation is professionals ages 25-45, but our
mailing list of over 600 contains people from all walks of life. Many of
our patrons do not consider themselves regular theatre goers. They are
receptive and eager for a wider variety of art and entertainment.
The backbone of any not for profit
organization is its volunteers. We have been blessed with a diligent
group. Our volunteers are involved in nearly every aspect of production.
They are responsible for everything from advanced promotion to post-show
clean-up.
Several local merchants have been
incredibly generous. Rehearsal space, fund-raising support, and office
equipment have all been donated. Support from local business such as these
is vital to our survival and growth.
We owe a debt of gratitude to all.
How can you help?
It is our dream to bring high quality theatre, art, and entertainment to
our community. However, it takes money to realize that dream.
Unfortunately, ticket sales alone do not always generate enough revenue to
fund this endeavor.
That is why it is our goal to raise a
minimum of $100,000.00 by the end of 2003. This worthy goal will be
achieved through a series of fund-raising events, charitable gifting,
grants, benefits and corporate sponsorship. The money raised will ensure
that we can continue to turn dreams turn into reality.
There are a number of ways that you can
help. Donors, volunteers, and patrons are always greatly appreciated. No
donation is ever too large or too small.
To make your tax-deductible donation
please make checks payable to Circum-Arts Foundation, earmarked for Willie
Bobo Production Group. Mail to Willie Bobo Production Group, 451 West 36th
St. 1b New York, NY 10018.
To volunteer your time or services please
e-mail us at
williebobopro@mindspring.com or call (212) 563-0115.
For information on upcoming productions
and events please visit our homepage at www.williebobpro.org.
We thank you for your support and look
forward to hearing from you soon.
Thank you,
Benjamin T. Scott,
Secretary, Executive Director of Marketing and
Development
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