The 1891 Fredonia Opera House recently launched its 2011 membership campaign. And thanks to an offer from one of its longtime members, the year-round performing arts center has the opportunity to secure a special windfall.
According to Opera House Executive Director Rick Davis, this year's drive is especially important. "There is no doubt that the past few years have been challenging ones for the Opera House," he notes. "The economy, while reportedly rebounding, continues to impact all not-for-profit organizations, and arts organizations especially."
Fortunately, good things often happen just when they're needed most, says Davis. "An anonymous member has stepped forward with an offer to match dollar for dollar up to $12,500 any contributions from new members and increases from renewing members. So ... we're hoping to achieve we'd like to realize 500 members this year, with total membership contributions of $50,000."
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The Queen of Bingo
Membership contributions account for nearly 20 percent of the overall operating income, so membership support is crucial. In the past year, the Opera House hosted more than 16,000 people at 130 public events, including 10 free events. We could not have done that without the support of members.
Members who join or renew now will be listed as supporters in the 2011 program guide. New members and current members who increase their contributions at certain levels receive free tickets to movies in the Opera House Cinema Series. For more information and a membership form, contact the Opera House at (716) 679-0891 or visit www.fredopera.org.