HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/15/2022 Item 6a, Van II::II:::II:'� ��'�� �����
Dear SLO City Council Members: 1/31/2022 �L� ���� �����
As SLO REP season ticket holders and/or Annual Fund donors,we are grateful that you are even
considering extending a challenge grant to SLO REP to help complete a new downtown theater.Your
consideration is a thoughtfulness that distinguishes San Luis Obispo as a special place to live.
Of course,as you would expect of avid theatergoers,we strongly encourage you to approve the grant,
and not just because we would be thrilled to experience live theatre—and more of it—in a building
designed expressly for that purpose.
A more urgent consideration, however is this blunt truth: If SLO REP spends too many more years in
its current space with no room for growth,SLO REP will die on the vine,and the entire community
would lose a valuable asset.
SLO REP has proven over the past decade that it knows how to grow, both artistically and as a going
concern. For example,in its past life as SLO Little Theatre, productions depended on the willingness of
all volunteers,and thus were uneven,as it would be difficult for cast and crew members to rehearse
as they should. Now,SLO REP is fully professional,compensating cast and crew for their tireless work.
As a result,artistic quality has improved markedly.
That artistic growth has led to a growing audience and donor base such that:
� Since 2014, season ticket subscribers have more than doubled.
� Annual attendance over that same period has grown by 80%.
• In 2018-19, SLO REP mainstage shows played to 94%capacity.
� Pre-pandemic, SLO REP's overall annual attendance was greater than the San Luis
Obispo Symphony, Festival Mozaic, Opera SLO, and the Civic Ballet combined.
� Since 2013, our Annual Fund has grown more than 400%,with three out of four
donors returning each year, a remarkable retention rate.
If you approve this grant,you will be investing in a very stable organization,one that is well
positioned to grow and produce even better work,and more of it.
We believe this grant will prove to be a wise long-term investment for the city. Please green light this
production.
Sincerely,
David and Joan Van ��.�, ��. M��''�d��
280 Cabrillo Lane
SIO, CA 93401 � �.�� �� �~�