A Letter from Marie Cassady, President of the Board of Trustees

March, 2024

Dear Peterborough Players Family, 

“Why do you love the Peterborough Players and what makes it important to you?”--a question I was recently asked at an arts forum. Beyond the beautiful, inspiring art that is presented, it’s the sense of community. When my husband and I moved here 18 years ago it was on a part-time basis and we knew no one. One of the first things we did was to attend the Players. For the two hours that we sat in the audience of total strangers we became part of a community sharing an experience.
 
And that’s what theatre is -- a collaboration between those on stage, those in the audience, and those behind the scenes who create the magical atmosphere. When we laugh at a line, applaud a song, oooh over a striking set or beautiful costume, we energize the artists, and they give that energy back to us. And we all feel a part of something special.
 
When the pandemic hit and the theatre went dark for a year, people got used to staying on the couch in their sweats and streaming Netflix. Since reopening the barn in 2022, our audience numbers have bounced back to 75% of their pre-COVID levels.  While we are doing better than other theatres in our region, having many empty seats is not financially sustainable and is disheartening to the artists who work so hard to produce a quality theatre experience. When that strong sense of community is lost, it affects artists’ work, the economic boost to the town, and most of all, personal connections.
 
The Players’ exciting 2024 season will draw us back together with comedy, mystery, romance, history, and a big musical. You may not be on the stage, but you play a valued role in bringing the performance to life– with your laughter, tears, applause – and your monetary support. As I write this, actors and crew are being hired, rights and scripts bought, and technical plans being drawn for the 2024 season.  Now we need your help to make it happen.  Please join me in donating to the Peterborough Players in support of our stupendous/sensational summer season.
 
Like you, I love this theatre and this community. And I look forward to being with you in the barn, enjoying exceptional art, and learning about what makes the Players important to you. And personally, thanking you for your support.

Marie Cassady
President of the Board of Trustees
 
P.S. The Players needs you now more than ever. And now, more than ever, I thank you for your generosity.