The noteworthy Highland Park-based Apple Tree Theatre announced its closure. The full press release follows:
Apple Tree Theatre and Eileen Boevers Performing Arts Workshop Closes
Highland Park, IL, September 14, 2009. – The Board of Directors for Apple Tree Theatre (ATT) and Eileen Boevers Performing Arts Workshop announced today that after 26 years of award winning theatrical productions and providing 40 years of educational programming to thousands of North Shore students, it is closing its doors, effective immediately.
The decision to close was not made without a great deal of soul searching, and only after exhaustive efforts to explore every possible avenue of financial support. ATT wanted to keep the doors open and the wonderful services and traditions alive. But it was not possible. Like many not-for-profit performing arts organizations in America, ATT is heavily dependent upon public giving and financial support. In this difficult economy, theater subscriptions and class enrollments are down significantly, foundation support is being squeezed and remains unpredictable, fund raising events and private donations have taken a significant downturn, and much local public funding has dried up.
Under these circumstances, The Board found no alternative to cancelling all programs scheduled for this fall (and into the future), and have had to terminate the employment of a dedicated staff. The staff worked valiantly to make the programs among the best in the country. It is through their excellence and high professional standards, along with a community of wonderful and loyal artists performing at Apple Tree Theatre, that have allowed us, in the past 26 years, to garner 120 Jeff Nominations (3 in this year alone) and 32 Jeff Awards.
This Fall Workshop students will be placed in other programs in the community.
Apple Tree Theatre’s 2009-2010 Season subscribers will soon receive their tickets by mail. In the place of Apple Tree productions these tickets will be redeemable at many of the finest theatrical venues in Chicago. The details of the redemption policy will be included with the tickets.
It is with great sadness and regret that the curtain comes down on what has been a jewel in our community and a truly historic run.
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