The Lakewood Ranch Community Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation awarded The Players Centre for Performing Arts a $5,000 grant to assist the community theatre with its losses incurred due to closure during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the cancellation of the final shows of the Wilde Broadway Series, the entire Summer Sizzler Series, Players Studio productions and classes, The Players Centre for Performing Arts has sustained extensive revenue losses. 

“We are deeply grateful to The Lakewood Ranch Community Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation for providing this grant at a time when we are struggling financially without an open theatre,” says Advancement Director Morgan Gerhart. “As we navigate through these challenging times, it is key for us to look for new and creative ways to entertain, educate and engage and with the support of this grant and the determination of our Board of Trustees, The Players has created virtual programs and new performances to inspire others.”

“To live in a community where philanthropic organizations seek out a need, and support a need, is proof you are living in the right community,” Interim CEO and Managing Artistic Director Jeffery Kin. “It’s always an incredible feeling to receive support from our community partners at the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund of the Manatee Community Foundation. We are blessed to have them as friends of The Players Centre!”

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