The Murray Centennial Campaign

One hundred years old! Our beloved Murray Theatre building, the home of Richmond Civic Theatre, will achieve that milestone on October 11 of this year. Through two world wars and a century of changes, our venerable theatre has served us well. But like most centenarians, it’s showing its age. This Centennial year is a good time not only to celebrate our past, but to prepare for our future by making greatly needed improvements.

Such as?  For one thing, enlarging our 100-year-old seats. Many of our seats are only 17½” wide, and few are more than 19”. The current industry minimum is 21”. Fortunately, we’ll be able to maintain and refinish our historic, decorative frames while widening our seats to modern standards, greatly enhancing patron comfort.   

Another need relates to our success. With six main stage shows, an active youth program (Stage One), and alternative theatre (Studio 10), we often have three shows in production at one time. We’ve thus lacked adequate space for rehearsals, set building, and storage. Other needs include larger restrooms, sound and lighting upgrades, orchestra pit modernization and heating improvements.

Fortunately, the former Lemon’s Florist building became available for purchase this past fall. Located immediately south of the theatre, it’s now the Theatre Annex. Several donors provided money for the downpayment and construction materials – and dedicated volunteers refurbished the interior. The Annex provides two large rehearsal rooms, an ample set shop, and generous upstairs storage. It will open for public tours during the April RCT show, “Beauty and the Beast.”

                                    Our new set shop                                                                       Preparing a new rehearsal room

New seating will be installed this summer, in time for the 2009 – 2010 season. Thanks to the weak economy and a seating company’s love of our theatre, the price is a bargain. Other improvements will follow as funds become available.  

All needs have been ranked in order of priority. These range from “Bronze” through “Gold,” as shown on the chart below. As you can see, we have already raised more than $190,000 prior to the public opening of the campaign! We’re off to a great start!

Below that is a pledge sheet. We realize the economy is weak, but please note that you can contribute over a five year period – and no contribution is too small. We hope you will join us in building for the next 100 years of live theatre enjoyment!