Antioch, CA – El Campanil Theatre is proud to announce its 95th anniversary fundraising campaign. The non-profit organization and 640 seat performing arts venue is seeking donations to continue its mission of providing quality entertainment and community events in the Antioch area.
The fundraiser will accept suggested donations of $9.50, $95.00, $950.00, or any amount that one can give. The funds raised will be used to support the theatre’s operations, its expanding arts education and career training programs, and ongoing maintenance of the historic building.
“We’re excited to celebrate our 95th anniversary and we’re grateful for the support of our community over the years,” said Joel Roster, Executive Director of El Campanil Theatre. “We hope that this fundraiser will help us continue to provide a cultural hub for the community and offer diverse programming for all ages.”
El Campanil made it through the heart of the pandemic “by the skin of our teeth”, according to Roster, but the after-effects of the pandemic rage on, as a night of entertainment has a different connotation in today’s age.
“The pandemic answered our stay-at-home needs for entertainment by making nearly every kind of entertainment available at the push of a button,” says Roster. “For all of us, a ‘night out’ used to be a spontaneous event. Now, there are so many more variables we need to consider as consumers. It’s not ‘dinner and a show’ anymore; it’s ‘dinner or a show’.”
With even Broadway staples like “Phantom of the Opera” closing its curtain this year, the effects Roster speaks of are not limited to East County, the Bay Area, or even California. Live performance is suffering nationwide.
“This venue is a gem. A jewel. A piece of history in which all of us have invested time, money, blood, sweat, tears, and memories. We want to make it to our hundredth birthday,” Roster says.
El Campanil Theatre has a rich history dating back to 1928 when it first opened its doors as a vaudeville house. Over the years, the theatre has hosted a variety of events including plays, musical performances, and film screenings.
In recent years, the theatre has expanded its programming to include educational programs for youth and adults. Donations can be made online at www.elcampaniltheatre.com, over the phone at 925-757-9500, or by mail at El Campanil Theatre, 604 W 2nd St, Antioch, CA 94509. All donations are tax-deductible.
For more information about El Campanil Theatre and its programs, please visit www.elcampaniltheatre.com or call (925) 757-9500.
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