“Beauty and the Beast,” “A Christmas Story,” “Rock of Ages,” “Rent” and a “Taylor Swift” musical tribute.
CM Performing Arts Center looks to run out its typically impressive lineup of musicals this fall and winter. But the cash-strapped Oakdale nonprofit faces the possibility of having no heat in the coming months.
The normally cozy theater for weeks has been left without air conditioning and heat. CM Performing Arts CEO & President Marc Hollid-Ausset said the theater’s HVAC units became inoperable and need to be replaced at a cost of $40,000.
It’s an expense the theater cannot foot alone. In desperation, the organization has turned to GoFundMe and established a fundraiser in order to keep the doors open.
“This is unfortunately an expense that we must cover in order to keep a comfortable and safe space for our community,” he said “This expense is devastating for a not-for-profit arts organization.”
In its plea for help from the community, the performing arts expressed thanks for donations from local businesses that have funded projects to replace wallpaper in the theater and install a new ceiling in the lobby.
“As our space started to look refreshed, so did our future. We were finally on a path forward that seemed hopeful and positive,” Hollid-Ausset wrote. “Though we are embarrassed to ask the community that has been so dedicated to getting us back on our feet to once again help us, we do not have a choice.”
Entering its fourth week, the campaign has raised $18,000 via 133 donations, but remains $22,000 short of its goal.
“Our GoFundMe campaign is almost halfway there, but we still have a way to go,” said Joe Naftal, chair of the venue’s board of directors, in a message posted on the CM Performing Arts’ Instagram page. “CM is a pillar of our community, and we are committed to supporting the people of Long Island through the power of the arts.
“Right now, though, we need your support,” he added.
Exclusive show for $100 donors
Donors who give $100 or more will be invited to an exclusive ‘Donors Performance’ at one of the venue’s upcoming shows.
“It’s the best way we know how to express our gratitude — through the gift of song and performance,” Naftal added.
Top photo: An actress from CM Performing Arts’ summer presentation of “West Side Story.”
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