Lights bright at Playhouse
<p>Dan "Doc" Heggem, the technical director for the Lake City Playhouse, takes down stage lights Monday that were secured above the stage of the small theater while preparing for the next production.</p>
COEUR d'ALENE - "Evita" did more than earn standing ovations during its run that wrapped up Sunday at the Lake City Playhouse.
It sold tickets. Lots of tickets.
Since it opened Sept. 17, try nearly $20,000 worth, a new Playhouse record that even topped ticket sales of "Annie" in 2008.
"It was a really strong show," said George Green, Playhouse artistic director.
Now in its 50th season, the Playhouse has turned things around from three years ago when it was awash in red ink and there was talk of the curtain coming down for good.
But no more. "Evita," the first of eight shows this season, drew rave reviews, finances are solid and the community has given it a thumbs up.
Season ticket sales have shot up. When Green arrived seven months ago, the Playhouse had about 80 season ticket holders. Today, it has nearly 400.
Green said the playhouse's annual budget this season is on target and he anticipates being fiscally in the black. His goal is to pay about $8,000 in prior season production debts - which he inherited when he arrived in April - by the end of the season.
"It's being managed like a business," Green said.
He said many past debtors forgave or traded the value for tickets or other means of recognition at the theater.
For the past seven months, the theater has made all its payments, met payroll for a staff of five, paid for upcoming production royalties as well as paying $12,000 in back royalties owed.
"Added to all of this, we have improved the facility's interior as part of the first phase of the renovation process," Green wrote.
The Playhouse underwent $57,000 in renovations and remodeling earlier this year. Another $100,000 in services has been donated to finish more projects by next summer.
"What this means is that we have a positive momentum," Green said.
Next up at the Playhouse is "The Elephant Man" directed by Marina Kalani. The drama opens Oct. 29 and will run through Nov. 14.
"We still rely heavily on tickets sales," Green said. "We need more support from foundations and local business to really thrive."
Green said the success of the Playhouse is a testament to a renewed marketing campaign, an emphasis on improvements, financial accountability and the continued support of the community.
"All this makes a difference," he said.