The Renaissance Performing Arts Association is beginning a fundraising campaign called “Ghost Light.” Currently, the organization has lost revenue approaching $425,000 due to the restrictions placed upon arts organizations during the Covid-19 pandemic.
It is theatrical tradition to have a ghost light – a single bulb on center stage enabling one to navigate the theatre to avoid trips and falls over set pieces. At the Renaissance, the ghost light also serves as a beacon for those charged with bringing the stage to life, and to welcome the next group of patrons to relish the emotional experiences that only live performances provide.
The Renaissance is asking the community to “Be Our Light” and donate to the Ghost Light Campaign. The much-needed funds will be used for a multitude of expenses and repairs such as fixing broken curbs and steps ($10,000), repairing plumbing issues ($6,000), purchasing a new Box Office printer ($1750), and clean and repaint outside and interior doors ($200). For more information on the campaign, go to https://rentickets.org/be-our-light/. Donations are accepted on the website as well as by mail to Renaissance Performing Arts, 138 Park Ave. W, Mansfield, OH 44902, or by calling the Box Office at (419) 522-2726.
The Renaissance also welcomes you to support by attending one of the ‘Ren Backlot’ productions. The Backlot productions are held outside of the theatre and offer safe and engaging entertainment. Upcoming live performances and film screenings include You Can’t Stop the Beat: The Best of the Ren’s Broadway Series, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Labyrinth (film), and Dancing in the Streets: The Motown Sound. These events are scheduled through mid-September.
An audience member recently commented on the Backlot productions by stating “Thank you for being committed to providing quality theatre in unprecedented times. I love that the Renaissance Theatre and its staff took the initiative and creativity to make live theater happen within the constraints of this pandemic. Thank you for always supporting the community of Mansfield...Renaissance Theatre never disappoints.”
For the complete health and safety plan of the Renaissance, go to www.RenTickets.org/Covid19.