Oshkosh Opera House Foundation
Annual Fund Drive- Spring 2016 Introducing highlights from the 2016-17 Performance Season
Thank you for your support! With the support of the individual and business donors to our Annual Fund, we are able to maintain our $1 million annual operating budget; host over 80 ticketed events from among our presenting series, educational series, Arts Partner and Education Partner programs; and keep ticket prices as affordable as possible. As with most nonprofit arts organizations, just over 40% of our budget is generated from your tremendous support. In 2016 and beyond, we’ve re-organized our experienced and dedicated staff in order to give our donors the highest level of attention possible. David Lange (Managing Director, 15 years at The Grand) is responsible for the theatre complex; Shawna Terry (Business Manager, 8 years) for the business operations; and Michelle Gress (Assistant to the Director, in her first year) for the marketing and donor oversight. My role has become focused on long-range and strategic planning, programming, and working directly with you, the donors, as partners in continuing our tradition in Downtown Oshkosh of presenting touring artists and raising up our local and student artists. The Grand Opera House is owned by and receives financial support from the City of Oshkosh.
Senior Management Team at the Oshkosh Opera House Foundation David Lange, Managing Director; Michelle Gress, Assistant to the Director; Shawna Terry, Business Manager; Joseph Ferlo, Foundation President & CEO and Director of The Grand
Michelle and I will be working on changing the way we communicate with our donors, to keep you at the forefront of all Foundation news. Together, we can all be a part of a great new season in 2016-17. Thank you for your support. Please join us for another great season.
Joseph Ferlo, President & CEO Oshkosh Opera House Foundation, Inc.
Introducing the 2016-17 Performance Season June 9, 2016- Donor Courtesy Days begin
A Twist of Lemmon
Feet Don’t fail me now!
Starring Chris Lemmon friday, Oct. 21 at 7:30 PM
Rhythmic Circus saturday, nov. 5 at 7:30 PM
Based on Chris Lemmon’s book by the same title, A TWIST OF LEMMON chronicles the life of his father, and Hollywood icon, Jack Lemmon. It’s a true father and son story that will make you laugh and warm your heart.
Homegrown hoofers from Minneapolis, Rhythmic Circus hits the road with a trunk full of tap shoes, funky costumes and a big brass band, ready to burst onto the stage with FEET DON’T FAIL ME NOW!
July 11, 2016- Orders will be fulfilled; tickets available to general public Administrative Office: 222 Pearl Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54901 920-424-2355 Box Office: 100 High Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54901 920-424-2350 grandoperahouse.org
The whiskeybelles
The Second city
sunday, dec. 4 at 3:30 PM
Holidazed and confused REVUE
Three shots and the truth! These aren’t your average belles. Often compared to the Pistol Annies and the Dixie Chicks, The Whiskeybelles’ upbeat blend of country, folk, and Americana will add some larger than life flavor to your holiday season.
Thursday, dec. 22 at 7:30 PM
The Second City is back with a sack full of allnew comedy sketches in their HOLIDAZED AND CONFUSED REVUE. This riotous send up of Christmas, Hannukah, Kwanzaa, and everything-in between is a holiday tradition you can actually look forward to!
The shows in the Annual Fund brochure represent shows booked as of April 15, 2016. Additional shows will be added, prior to the official season announcement to donors on June 9, 2016.
tent show radio live
Yesterday and today
FRANC D’AMBROSIO
MICHAEL PERRY and the BLUE CANVAS ORCHESTRA
THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE
The Iron Man of the Mask
saturday, jan. 14 at 7:30 PM
friday, jan. 20 at 7:30 PM
friday, feb. 24 at 7:30 PM
WPR’s TENT SHOW RADIO is now live! Experience a new dimension to this traditional radio show, featuring music by the Blue Canvas Orchestra and monologues from New York Times best-selling author, and TSR host, Michael Perry.
Immerse yourself in the sounds and memories of the 1960s in this all new interactive concert experience where the audience creates the playlist for the night. Psst… what’s your favorite Beatles song?
Called “The Iron Man of the Mask”, Franc was awarded the distinction as the “World’s Longest Running Phantom”. Since then, he has crossed over to a successful solo career, joining the ranks of other famed Phantom alumni - Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman.
Treasure Island
artrageous
The highwaymen live
Missoula children’s Theatre
Art & Music. Gone Wild.
TRIBUTE TO WILLIE, WAYLON & johnny CASH
saturday, april 22 at 3:00 PM
Saturday, may 13 at 7:30 PM
Saturday, June 3 at 7:30 pm
The Little Red Truck is back for Spring Break 2017, filled with scenery, costumes, and props. All that’s needed is a cast. And that’s where the children of our community come in! Auditions: Monday, April 17
With a palette of captivating vocals, intricate choreography and exciting audience interaction, ArtRAGEOUS takes you on a unique visual journey. It truly is Art and Music. Gone Wild.
Perhaps the greatest country music super group in history, THE HIGHWAYMEN once traveled the world performing for millions of fans. Relive that experience with this widelyloved tribute to Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash.
our arts partners
Oshkosh Community Players is a communitybased theatre company in residence at the historic Grand Opera House. It is the mission of the Oshkosh Community Players to produce theater that both reflects our society and societies of the past while informing our community.
The OSO has been an integral part of the cultural life of Oshkosh since 1942. The OSO creates community partnerships that provide innovative musical experiences and participation opportunities for local students in youth symphonies to entertain, educate, and enrich the quality of life for people in the Oshkosh community and beyond.
Hysterical Productions is proud of their fresh look on traditional, classical and other momentous stories-brought to life on the stage, in the park, at historical locations and even in your own home! They aim to inspire and inform all ages through fun, unique, dynamic productions and events, as well as workshops and classes.
TWELVE ANGRY MEN September 22-24, 2016 A CHRISTMAS STORY December 8-10, 2016 CALENDAR GIRLS April 28-May 6, 2017
HOLIDAY CONCERT December 3, 2016 DISCOVERY ARTIST CONCERT January 28, 2017 75th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT with pianist ALPIN HONG April 7, 2017
THE SPITFIRE GRILL October 7-15, 2016 A CHRISTMAS CAROL: SCROOGE & MARLEY December 16-18, 2016 ROMEO AND JULIET March 17-25, 2017
INDIVIDUAL Donor Benefits Albert Eisenach Level ($50 - $99) Albert Eisenach was the original supplier of the 70,000 bricks used to build The Grand. Benefits at this level include: * “Donor Courtesy Days” to purchase tickets in advance of the general public. Battis Brothers Level ($100 - $249) The Battis Brothers owned the property adjacent to the Opera House, which is now the lobby, restrooms and Grand Lounge. Benefits at this level include all Eisenach level benefits, plus: * Listing on the Donor Board to be installed in the Grand Lobby in Fall 2016. “Honest” John Williams Level ($250 - $499) “Honest” John was a respected owner and manager of The Grand, known for his straightforward approach and ability to book excellent shows. Benefits at this level include all Battis Brothers level benefits, plus: * Ticket Concierge Service to reserve season tickets and exchange or add tickets to individual performances.
THE PRODUCERS CIRCLE DONOR LEVELS $500 AND HIGHER
Louis Kindt Level ($500 - $999) Louis Kindt was the original painter of the stage (fire) curtain. Benefits at this level include all “Honest” John level benefits, plus: * Complimentary invitations for two to our exclusive Producers Circle events. J. Frank Waldo Level ($1,000 - $2,499) J. Frank Waldo painted the original nature-themed ceiling, the Shakespeare portrait and opera house logo above the stage, restored in 2010. Benefits at this level include all Kindt level benefits, plus: * Eights guest passes to bring your friends to our exclusive Producers Circle events. William Waters Level ($2,500 - $4,999) Built in 1883, The Grand was designed by Oshkosh architect William Waters. Benefits at this level include all Waldo level benefits, plus: * Unlimited invitations for you and your guests to attend Producers Circle events. Spirit of the Grand Level ($5,000+) The highest level of individual support for the historic Grand Opera House. Benefits at this level include all Waters level benefits, plus: * One free use of The Grand Lounge for a private event (subject to availability, additional charges may apply for catering, beverage services, and staffing).
THE BACKERS CIRCLE Performance Partner ($5000) Performance Partner for a specific show Full-page ad in Fall or Spring Playbill Logo recognition in all promo associated with the show Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the centerpiece of the Playbill Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the Season Brochure (if received before June 1, 2016) Recognition on the Donor Board to be installed in the Grand Lobby in Fall 2016 Invitations for four to all Producers Circle events 10 premium ticket vouchers to be used for any Grand-presented show* 20 balcony tickets to the sponsored show Benefactor ($2500) Half-page ad in Fall or Spring Playbill (Donor’s choice) Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the centerpiece of the Playbill Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the Season Brochure (if received before June 1, 2016) Recognition on the Donor Board to be installed in the Grand Lobby in Fall 2016 Invitations for two to all Producers Circle events 4 premium ticket vouchers, 4 circle ticket vouchers to be used for any Grand-presented show *
BUSINESS DONOR BENEFITS
In addition to the traditional show sponsorship (Performance Partners), there are now opportunities for businesses at more levels. The funds donated by businesses will go into a Performance Sponsor Fund and be used to support all programming. All business donors are a part of the Backers Circle.
Supporter ($1000) Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the centerpiece of the Playbill Logo recognition on the Backers Page in the Season Brochure (if received before June 1, 2016) Recognition on the Donor Board to be installed in the Grand Lobby in Fall 2016 Invitations for two to all Producers Circle events 2 premium ticket vouchers, 4 circle ticket vouchers to be used for any Grand-presented show* Contributor ($500) Text recognition on the Backers Page in the centerpiece of the Playbill Text recognition on the Backers Page in the Season Brochure (if received before June 1, 2016) Recognition on the Donor Board to be installed in the Grand Lobby in Fall 2016 6 circle ticket vouchers to be used for any Grand-presented show* Invitations for two to all Producers Circle events
*- Vouchers must be redeemed for actual tickets. Subject to availability of tickets at time of redemption.
Year at a glance June 9 Donor Courtesy Days advance orders begin 15 Community Band Concert July 11 Tickets on sale to General Public 14 Dark Nights begin (Thursdays and Fridays through September 2) August 20 Season Kick-off Open House September 22-24 TWELVE ANGRY MEN (OCP) 30 FLOWER POWER WEEKEND October 1 FLOWER POWER WEEKEND 7-15 THE SPITFIRE GRILL (HP) 18 THE TRUE STORY OF POCOHONTAS (SDS) 20 Producers Circle with Chris Lemmon
21 A TWIST OF LEMMON- Chris Lemmon tribute to his father Jack Lemmon 27 THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA (SDS) November 2 WE THE PEOPLE (SDS) 3 Producers Circle with Rhythmic Circus 5 FEET DON’T FAIL ME NOW! – Rhythmic Circus 10 JIGSAW JONES (SDS) 15 THEODORE ROOSEVELT (SDS) 18 MacDowell Male Chorus with Leahy’s Luck December 1 Producers Circle Holiday Party with Marissa Mulder and Bill Zeffiro 3 HOLIDAY CONCERT (OSO) 4 THE WHISKEYBELLES 8-10 A CHRISTMAS STORY (OCP) 11 Oshkosh Community Band 16-18 A CHRISTMAS CAROL: SCROOGE & MARLEY (HP) 22 THE SECOND CITY- Holidazed and Confused Revue
January 14 TENT SHOW RADIO LIVE with Michael Perry 20 YESTERDAY AND TODAYThe Interactive Beatles Experience 28 DISCOVERY ARTIST CONCERT (OSO) location TBA February 9-12 Oshkosh North High School musical 18 Second Annual A GRAND NIGHT black-tie gala 22 BISCUIT (SDS) 23 Producers Circle- Franc D’Ambrosio 24 FRANC D’AMBROSIO- THE IRON MAN OF THE MASK March 3-4 Alligator Records Blues Fest 8 LAURA INGALLS WILDER (SDS) 16 ROMEO AND JULIET (SDS) 17-25 ROMEO AND JULIET (HP) 30-31 Lourdes Academy musical
April 1 Lourdes Academy musical 5-8 THE ARTS: THE OTHER BASIC HUMAN NEED with Alpin Hong 7 75th Anniversary Concert with Alpin Hong (OSO) 11 HOUSE ON POOH CORNER (SDS) 17 Missoula Children’s Theatre auditions 22 Missoula Children’s TheatreTREASURE ISLAND 28-30 CALENDAR GIRLS (OCP) May 4-6 CALENDAR GIRLS (OCP) 13 ArtRAGEOUS June 3 THE HIGHWAYMEN LIVE
OCP= Oshkosh Community Players OSO= Oshkosh Symphony Orchestra HP= Hysterical Productions SDS= Student Discovery Series
Mission of the oshkosh opera house foundation:
To preserve and expand the significance of the historic Grand Opera House by maintaining a financially secure organization that serves the community by promoting and enhancing the performing arts, social and related educational opportunities.
studentproduced shows
arts partner events
touring artists
free community shows
100
grand lounge shows
educational shows
PLUS: Dark nights | Weddings | Meetings & events | Arts in the community
NEW FOR 2016-17: SIGNaTURE WEEKENDS FLOWER POWER WEEKEND September 30-October 1, 2016
March 3-4, 2017
with BIG BROTHER & THE HOLDING COMPANY COUNTRY JOE McDONALD COMMANDER CODY THE RICOCHETTES and MORE
with MARCIA BALL SIEGEL-SCHWALL BLUES BAND LI’L ED AND THE BLUES IMPERIALS TORONZO CANNON MORELAND & ARBUCKLE SELWYN BIRCHWOOD
season kick-off open house You’re invited to the Oshkosh Opera House Foundation’s annual gala event! February 18, 2017. Dinner. Entertainment. Silent & live auctions. Entertainment will be provided by Manhattan cabaret performers: Bill Zeffiro & Marissa Mulder. Proceeds will benefit educational, outreach and free community programming at The Grand.
Looking for a fun place to “hang out” this summer? Join us for DARK NIGHTS in The Grand Lounge, starting July 14. For 8 weeks, the stage is dark, but the Lounge is hopping. Thursday’s are Karaoke Night and Friday’s are Trivia Night! The cash bar will be open with nachos, pizza and pretzels starting at 7 PM each night! Mark your calendars for 8 weeks of FREE fun in The Grand Lounge!
Join us on August 20 at 6:30 PM to kick off the 2016-17 season! We will be offering hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, a preview of the 2016-17 season and live music. Schedule: 6:30 Snacks and cash bar 7:30 Presentation of the Season 8:15 Mixer on stage with a live artist (TBA)
Producers Circle
Become a part of the Producers Circle today by supporting the Annual Fund at the $500 level and higher. Producers Circle members gain access to exclusive events at The Grand that are not available to the general public. Producers Circle members get up-close-and-personal meetings with the artists of The Grand, while supporting the Foundation mission in a significant way.
producers circle events:
October 20 Meet Chris Lemmon, Jack’s son, prior to his October 21 performance in his one-man tribute to his Dad, A TWIST OF LEMMON.
November 3 Meet two of the performers of Rhythmic Circus’ FEET DON’T FAIL ME NOW!, prior to their November 5 performance.
December 1 Producers Circle Holiday Party with award-winning NYC cabaret artists, Marissa Mulder and Bill Zeffiro.
February 23 Meet Franc D’Ambrosio, “The Iron Man of the Mask” and star of Broadway’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, prior to his February 24 performance.
Annual fund support Thank you for your donation! _____________________________________________________________ Name
INDIVIDUAL DONOR: BUSINESS DONOR:
$250
$2500
$100
$5000
$1000
$500
$50 Other: ____________
$2500
$1000
$500
Check or money order payable to: Oshkosh Opera House Foundation
_____________________________________________________________ Business Name (if a Business Donor) _____________________________________________________________ Address
$5000
VISA
MasterCard
______________________________________________________________ Acct. No. Exp. Date Sec. Code
_____________________________________________________________ City State Zip _____________________________________________________________ Telephone Email Complete and return this form to: Grand Opera House, PO Box 1004, Oshkosh WI 54903-1004 920-424-2355 | grandoperahouse.org
______________________________________________________________ Name As it Appears on Card
______________________________________________________________ Signature My employer has a matching gift program
Oshkosh Opera House Foundation, Inc 222 Pearl Avenue, Oshkosh WI 54901
Watch for our full Season Brochure coming in JuLY!
NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID OSHKOSH, WI PERMIT NO. 47