HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/23/2019 Item 2, Washinton
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Ellie W. <elliewashington3@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday,
To:Advisory Bodies
Subject:Approve a new home for SLO Rep Theatre
To Planning Commission Members,
I’m writing in support of the new San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre building in Downtown SLO. Theatre is one
of the cornerstones for a vibrant and culturally diverse downtown, and SLO REP has earned the right to build a
permanent home for itself.
From its roots as a community theatre, SLO REP has experienced incredible growth over the years in its
make-shift theatre space in the former city library, and has established itself as a mainstay in Downtown SLO.
SLO REP is also a historical asset to the city, enriching the downtown experience for decades. Granting SLO
REP a permanent home will pay homage to the nearly 75 years the non-profit has been producing shows in
San Luis Obispo.
In addition to being on the board of SLO REP, I am part of a local group of Under 40s. We are working
professionals and young families advocating to make SLO a place where residents who aren’t college students
or retirees can live, work and thrive. This proposed new theatre, with its larger capacity and dual stage spaces,
will offer even more rich and eclectic experiences for those in my demographic who have aged out of the
typical bar scene and crave different nightlife options. And the expanded children’s programs will offer even
more classes for our children.
SLO REP is a vital economic driver. When patrons attend a matinee or evening performance, they tend to
make a day/night out of it. For every dollar they spend on their ticket, they are spending additional dollars on
dining, parking, drinks, etc. In downtowns across America, a theatre is an investment that pays it forward to the
establishments within the vicinity.
SLO REP has earned its keep over the last 73 years, and we are making great strides to raise the funds
necessary to build a new state-of-the-art facility to match our professional theatre status. I urge you to approve
the new theatre building for SLO Rep.
Sincerely,
Ellie Washington
SLO REP Board of Directors
1