Westchester Broadway Theatre's Final Curtain Call

Dear Friends,

 Thank you for being a friend and patron of the Westchester Broadway Theatre.

 As the world has been plunged into the intense emergency of Covid 19, Broadway has announced it will not reopen until June 2021 or later. Dinner-Theatre, because of social distancing requirements, will be the last entertainment category to be given permission. That may not happen until the end of 2021. Our landlord, Robert-Martin, does not want to continue supporting our lease and we have no alternative but to close WBT after nearly 46 years.  Sadly, the interior is to be destroyed and the building turned into a warehouse.

 The art of presenting live theatre is one of NY State's largest industries and many shows are on hold or may never be performed, theatres are closed throughout the state.12 Million people out of work, and numerous patrons are holding outstanding tickets to shows. Unfortunately, WBT had to use all its available funds to desperately try to keep the theatre going.  Due to this ongoing situation the theatre is financially unable to offer refunds to those customers with advance tickets but has been able to arrange what we believe is a good alternative.

 

The good news is WBT patrons will still have a professional Actors Equity theatre in their backyard to attend when restrictions are lifted. The White Plains Performing Arts Center, which is located in downtown White Plains, has generously offered to try assisting affected WBT ticket holders by honoring outstanding tickets and gift cards for a future WPPAC show. The WPPAC is receiving no remuneration of any kind for performing this service. This will be a way to give back to the community and keep the industry alive; as well as fulfill the outstanding obligations to patrons. WPPAC now in their 17th season, has been producing hit Broadway musicals like Les Misérables, Beauty & the Beast, Sister Act, Newsies and many Regional Premieres all with outstanding production values, large orchestras and actors from Broadway and beyond! In addition to their musicals they also have an extensive concert series featuring world renowned artists, comedy shows and much more to offer its patrons.

For more information on WPPAC, the details on the exchange program and to take a look at their past productions visit www.wppac.com/wbt . They can also be contacted via email at boxoffice@wppac.com or by phone at 914-328-1600. The White Plains Performing Arts Center has used this down-time to make many new renovations to accommodate the “new world of theatre” when Governor Cuomo authorizes theaters to reopen. Everything from air purification systems, to advanced cleaning protocol and social distancing has been put in place.

Over the past 45 years the Westchester Broadway Theatre produced 217 Broadway musicals and plays, around 75 children’s shows, presented 1500 Monday/Tuesday Specials, employed around 5000 actors, musicians, directors, choreographers, set, lights, sound and hair designers.  Employed over the years 2000 dining room and kitchen personal.  Entertained and served lunch and dinner to 6,000,000 customers. 

 This unique facility hosted many senior citizens groups, those with physical handicaps.  Produced benefits for children in institutions, Wounded Warrior fund raisers, High School sports award dinners, weddings, memorial services, business sales meetings (IBM, Subaru, Professional Golf, and many more.  The Hudson River Clearwater summer scholarship and the White Plains Senior scholarship money were awarded each year.

 It is with a heavy heart that we leave you but wish you much good will, heartfelt thank you, and of course, good live theatre going in the near future.

 We will miss you!

 Sincerely,

  Bob Funking, Bill and Von Ann Stutler

 Founders

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Submitted by New Fairfield, CT

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