Update – September 2019
Update – August 2019
Who could have predicted that a feisty upstart theater would evolve into a treasured Point Richmond institution? From our founding in 1955 and continuing on even though we had no home stage, Masquers creates lively theater for all ages and tastes. Our next phase depends on you.
ACT I: RESTORE
We’ve partnered with Interactive Resources and Overaa Construction. Two firms that really know Point Richmond are already on the job. The plans include:
• replace a structurally-needed cracked beam;
• eliminate a visually-distracting vertical post in audience seating; and
• remodel a restroom to serve people with physical challenges.
We’ll give the lobby a makeover, with fresh paint, carpet and new fixtures. From the moment you walk through our front doors, you’ll feel the sense of community Masquers is so good at creating.
ACT II: REVITALIZE
Fresh look, renewed spirit, can’t lose. We’ll pick up right where we left off by producing full-stage musicals, dramas, mysteries, and comedies, black-box style Envisions productions, brand new works presented “readers theater” style by our Off the Page program, and the Stage One summer program for kids. The Songbook Series will round out our season of exciting, eclectic theater created with you in mind.
ACT III: RE-IMAGINE
Picture a hub of innovation and collaboration. We’ll draw deeply from our community’s rich history and abundant talent, and build a strong future by engaging younger audiences and actors. We’ll establish a culture of contributing to other local nonprofits, because we’re family in spirit. We’ll think big, but we’ll always stay true to our Point Richmond roots.
CASTING CALL
This is your moment in the spotlight. Your donation will be the start of an exciting new act for our theater. With you in our cast, we’ll set a construction schedule, determine a re-open date, and raise the curtain on our restored space and brand new season.
Our goal is $500,000. To date we’ve raised over $400,000. Help us reach our goal by donating now. To give online, click here. You may also mail checks to PO Box 71037, Richmond, CA 94807. To discuss donations of stocks, vehicles, property, or large donations, please contact us at 510-232-3888 or email at rebuild@masquers.org.
In a nutshell, during our video we announced that we have full plans for restoring the building that are now with the contractor and will soon be going to the city for permits. The project is to repair the cracked beam, make a restroom and seating areas more ADA accessible, and to update the public areas. Once we secure the permits, the contractor will schedule the work to begin. We have a fundraising goal of $500,000 and have raised over $400,000 so far. We are now asking for support from the community to help close out our fundraising goal. We will continue to update everyone with news of how fundraising is progressing and as construction begins. We hope everyone can do their part to spread the word that Masquers is healthy and on the road to re-opening very, very soon.
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Update – Winter 2019
Are you ever going to re-open??
We are optimistic about re-opening!
I haven’t heard anything in a while. What’s going on?
We’ve signed a contract with Interactive Resources and are working on the scope of work for what exactly needs to be done in order to re-open and are currently waiting to get a detailed cost estimate. We are very excited to share a major update with you in early fall 2019.
How much is the repair going to cost?
Based on very preliminary estimates, we think the work will be between $400K and $600K.
So, when will you be back up and running?
How soon depends on several factors. First, determining the precise scope of work and associated costs. Second, how quickly we can raise the necessary funds. And third, the availability of quality contractors to do the work.
How can I help?
First, you can come to our shows! If you are wanting to get involved the rebuild project, please know that we’re getting our fundraising ducks in a row. You will definitely know when you can support us financially. We’ll hold a kick-off and other events where you’ll have an opportunity to give us your money!
I’m worried about how long this is taking.
We are VERY thankful for your concern. The beam took us out of our areas of expertise, but we’ve learned a ton and are moving forward with confidence and enthusiasm.
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Update – Summer 2018
A dark theater is a sad, dispiriting place. To quote history’s most eloquent playwright and poet, “It sucketh.”
Masquers are deep into the biggest production of their 60-year history; bringing the lights back up at 105 Park Place in Pt. Richmond. In the meantime, shows and events are being staged using OPVs (other people’s venues), all who have generously shared their valuable space and time:
- Chanticleers Theatre in Castro Valley
- Pinole Community Playhouse
- Kaleidoscope Coffee in Pt. Richmond
- Rigger’s Loft in Pt. Richmond
Plans are afoot to create more productions and places for our friends to get together, like the recent crab feed and annual Memorial Day garage sale. Please consider a donation so Masquers can continue staging events, paying insurance, and keeping up with maintenance costs until we raise the curtain in our beloved theater once again.
Are you on our mailing list? If not, simply text the word MASQUERS to 22828. To make a donation, click here.
Thanks, and thanks, and ever thanks! Thou dost rock!
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Update – Fall 2017
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
The Masquers have been working hard to get back up and open. We miss doing shows for you!
We need to finish a seismic upgrade, meet handicapped requirements, improve emergency exits, and upgrade our electrical system. The planning is finished and we have explored our financing options. Soon we will be launching a major fundraising campaign to make this all possible.
Meanwhile, we will continue to present staged readings and events that showcase our directors and actors, and keep the Masquers light shining. Keep checking Masquers.org for the latest news and events.
We are deeply grateful for the concern and help of all of you who have and do support us through this difficult time.
Many heartfelt thanks— from the Masquers