I am the Board Chair and CEO of RBTL and would like to clear up some misconceptions you have. First, our not for profit status is granted to create education programs for children (and some adults( in the area. We present a wide range of entertainment in all forms, not just Broadway, to garner funds to do that. Many times we even promote shows "at risk" to be sure that we reach our revenue goals for our education programs.
During the run of Wicked, hundreds of school age children attended the show, were fed dinner before, and paid $15.00 for the experience. We do that so they are invested in the evening rather than just going because they have to. Annually, we put 5,000 or so area children through the programs we create, many recognized as the best in the country!
As we move towards this new and expanded presence in the city, our education programs will be expanded as well and the Aud will be the hub of them. I hope this provides some insight into our work in that area since it is the reason for the 501(c)3 status...the promotion of entertainment events of all kinds is the mechanism that pays for the programs along with fund raising.
Re: “How the city made its Parcel 5 choice”
Diogenes,
I am the Board Chair and CEO of RBTL and would like to clear up some misconceptions you have. First, our not for profit status is granted to create education programs for children (and some adults( in the area. We present a wide range of entertainment in all forms, not just Broadway, to garner funds to do that. Many times we even promote shows "at risk" to be sure that we reach our revenue goals for our education programs.
During the run of Wicked, hundreds of school age children attended the show, were fed dinner before, and paid $15.00 for the experience. We do that so they are invested in the evening rather than just going because they have to. Annually, we put 5,000 or so area children through the programs we create, many recognized as the best in the country!
As we move towards this new and expanded presence in the city, our education programs will be expanded as well and the Aud will be the hub of them. I hope this provides some insight into our work in that area since it is the reason for the 501(c)3 status...the promotion of entertainment events of all kinds is the mechanism that pays for the programs along with fund raising.
arnie rothschild