It is likely you are among the millions of people stuck at home, in self-quarantine, as we as a nation and a world population continue our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope that you are finding time to read books and plays, to binge watch a new television show or take in a movie that has been on your list during this period of isolation. If you find yourself checking those boxes, you are, in reality, turning to artists for comfort, solace, entertainment, inspiration and a feeling of being connected during this unprecedented time. That is what artists do!
The Roxy Regional Theatre has survived for more than 37 years because of our family of staff, artists and the loyal supporters like YOU who have been on this journey from day one. With your support, I vow to the citizens of Clarksville-Montgomery County and Middle Tennessee that the Roxy Regional Theatre will continue our efforts to emerge from this “new normal” healthy and poised for success.
Like most everyone else, we have suspended all activities that bring us together in the same area — one of the greatest experiences that live theatre gives us. This is a temporary “new normal” that is challenging and is resulting in a delay, but not an end, to the numerous projects we have in development and will continue to develop.
However, all of the effects of this “new normal” mean a significant reduction of income for the company. The truth of the matter is, the Roxy Regional Theatre relies on the generous support of individuals and corporations and, in the end, ticket sales to make ends meet. In the coming weeks, we will be reducing as many expenses as we can to become as bare bones as possible. This is our responsibility to the company and also you, our patron. It is my hope that these difficult decisions will ensure our ability to continue to present the remainder of Season 37 and prepare for an exciting Season 38.
To our artistic family and staff, we are committed to you and your well-being. We will continue to seek out work for you and, barring that, will share opportunities to remain connected within the larger community of theatre makers.
And to our supporters, we know that you are being asked for help left and right. If you are able, if you were planning to donate to the Roxy Regional Theatre this year, please do so now.
Donations may also be made via check made payable to Roxy Regional Theatre and mailed to 100 Franklin Street, Clarksville TN 37040.
In our 37-year history, the Roxy Regional Theatre has never seen a challenge as potentially devastating as this one. The prospect of weeks and possibly months of shutting down our normal activities frightens us all. But we will rely on each other for support of all kinds, and we at the Roxy Regional Theatre offer it wholeheartedly.
We will continue to bring theatre into a world that desperately needs it, and we will continue to provide people tools needed to unleash their creativity. So stay tuned to our website and social media platforms for ways to be connected electronically over the coming weeks.
We are all, as a human race, facing mountains of uncertain circumstances and are now trying to wrap our heads around ideas that were unimaginable only a few weeks ago. Please know, the Roxy Regional Theatre and myself are eternally grateful for you as supporters of the arts, even from a safe distance. We will wake up to a brighter future very, very soon.
Sincerely,
Ryan Bowie
Executive Director
