Effingham Performance Center Reaches Halfway Mark of "Keep the Curtain Rising" Annual Fund Campaign

Members of the Friends of the Effingham Performance Center have raised $200,000 of the $400,000 annual fund goal. The Keep the Curtain Rising Annual Fund campaign for the EPC was kicked off in late April to increase financial support for the local performance center, which drew more than 32,000 patrons to the Effingham area last year.

Dr. Jay Fernando, board member of the Effingham Performance Center, explained the importance of the fund drive to the future of the EPC. "Whether it is the St. Louis Fox Theater or Sullivan's Little Theater on the Square, it is difficult for local performance centers to survive on ticket sales alone."

"While the EPC has done better financially over the past year, its improved financial position is due to the support of the EPC patrons and donors," added Dr. Ruben Boyajian, EPC Board of Directors Co-chair. "The EPC is deeply grateful for the support we have received from donors and our patrons who continue to financially support the performance center. Without their support, the EPC would struggle to survive."

The 1,523 seat theater has brought artists such as Bret Michaels, Martina McBride, Jungle Jack Hanna, Bill Engvall, REO Speedwagon, Junie B. Jones and Gaither Vocal Band to central Illinois over the past year.

"We work hard to provide the greatest entertainment to central Illinois, but the EPC needs your help," said Rich Jorn, executive director of the EPC. "Many artists set the ticket price, which limits the profit we may earn, and we want to do our best in making the EPC affordable for everyone."

Since beginning student education performances, nearly 5,000 students have experienced the arts in a whole new way, through professional performances from the stage at the Effingham Performance Center. Educators give the EPC positive feedback about Student Performances: ".many students are not exposed to the arts and connecting the arts to literature is a great idea and way to learn. awesome day!"

The Center also continues to enroll nearly 65 students with two-sessions of summer drama camp for ages eight to seventeen. Recent research demonstrates that students deeply involved in the arts are more likely to earn better grades, stay in school and exhibit fewer behavioral problems than students who are not.

"With your help, the EPC will continue to establish itself as a strong and vital community asset that enhances the quality of life in central Illinois," said Jorn.

Area donors have given $196,150 in donations since late April. Three lead donors have offered to match each gift by 35 percent.

"This is a very generous offering to help the EPC work towards our goal," Jorn said.

Individuals who would like to make a tax-deductible gift to the EPC may do so by contacting Jorn at (217)540-2788. Gifts of cash, check, credit card, stocks, bonds, mutual funds and planned gifts will be accepted.