An open letter to the theatre community

September 10, 3:34 PMDenver Theater ExaminerDeb Flomberg

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Dear members of the theatre community,

There is something so wonderful, something so special, something so unique about what it is that we do. I often have to stop myself, look around, and take a minute to remind myself how lucky I am to be considered a part of your community. There aren’t many people that have the courage to follow their passions. Yet each and every one of you has that courage and has taken that step to follow the goals and dreams that your passions bring you. For that, I applaud you and I admire you and I am truly humbled to be a part of your community.

This year has brought us a tremendous amount of loss, and its proven that we – as a community – come together and support one and other in these difficult times. There has also been a lot of discussion about the future of the theatre community and where it will go from here? Has the economic crisis damaged us beyond repair? Are we now experiencing a sort of resurgence? How does a community that is made up of 99% volunteers expand? How can we come together and support each other, just as our recent losses have proven that we can, in a way that will encourage growth, learning, and new challenges? Isn’t that why we are in this in the first place? I truly believe that there is room in this community for everyone that wants to be a part of it. There is a big enough pie to go around, and we just have to learn to share it. For one, we can learn from other shows, other actors, other directors. Second, we need to keep in the general public’s mindset that theatre is a viable and realistic option for their entertainment dollar.

So, the question remains – how do we do this?

Basic business 101 will tell you that the best customers come from referrals - recommendations from friends or family. The simple truth is that we are too isolated to get the word out about the amazing talent that exists in our community. So, I issue you a challenge. Let’s make the month of October “Bring a friend to the theatre” month. Every one of us sees several shows every month – the challenge is to bring someone that has never been to the theatre with you. Spread the word. Let people know what is happening. If we all do this one simple task, then it will increase attendance at theatres across the state and those people will become new theatre patrons. Don’t just invite someone to your own show – but take the time to go see someone else’s show and bring your friend. Spend the time experiencing theatre with them – just like a patron. Enjoy the entertainment value of it again. Remind yourself why it is you do what you do, then spread the love of that with someone else. If we can all do this, then we will all see the benefits of coming together – as a community – to support each other and keep live theatre in Colorado vibrant and strong. October 2009 – Bring a Friend to the Theatre Month.

Sincerely,
Deb Flomberg
Denver Theater Examiner