Richard Kind Joins Bay Street Board

Bay Street Theatre kicked off its 2nd Annual Appeal this week by announcing that actor Richard Kind has joined the Board of Trustees. The theatre will celebrate its 20th anniversary season in 2011. Funds raised will help keep the theatre sustainable to continue bringing the Mainstage Season theatrical productions to the East End and beyond a well as educational outreach programming, theatrical workshops, Comedy Club and the classic film series. This not for profit theatre operates as a 501 c3 with 50% of its operating costs raised each year through donations. The appeal also includes reaching out to find additional board members who might help provide guidance for the theatre as well as financial support throughout the year.

"It is with great pleasure that the Board of Directors of Bay Street Theatre welcomes Richard Kind to the Board," says Artistic Directors Sybil Christopher and Murphy Davis. "Richard has appeared on Bay Street's stage on numerous occasions delighting our audiences with his one of a kind talent, giving unique and inspired performances. He has also given his time to help support Bay Street, especially as our primo auctioneer at the Summer Gala Benefit. We look forward to our on-going collaboration with Richard and thank him from the bottom of our hearts for his incredible support."

Richard just completed a successful and hysterical run as the judge in ROMANCE, by David Mamet at Bay Street. He was also in the Bay Street productions of ROUGH CROSSING and THE LADY IN QUESTION. Richard is known for his comedic roles on "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Spin City," and "Mad About You." His Broadway credits include THE PRODUCERS, DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS, SLY FOX, TALES OF THE ALLERGIST'S WIFE and BOUNCE. Television audiences will also get to see Richard in upcoming production of HBO's "Luck" and Clint Eastwood's new film "The Hereafter."

"I've always been a fan of Bay Street Theatre and its mission," says Richard. "The choices Bay Street makes for their season are entertaining as well as stimulating. I like my theatre to provoke, make me feel, think, and even question all the while being entertained. When one singular jewel like Bay Street stands alone, that should be treated with the utmost deference. Theater takes hard work, care, discipline, and energy to make it good. So, to sustain, we must acknowledge that we must invest ourselves a little more."

"Richard has given many wonderful performances on our stage over recent years," says Frank Filipo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. "His willingness to bring his talents and theatre savvy to our Board has energized all of us as we head into Bay Street's twentieth year.

"Our goal is to raise $450,000 during the last quarter of the year," says Tracy Mitchell, Executive Director. "While no amount of support is too small, we are also looking for sponsors to support and help underwrite programs including the Mainstage Season and our other initiatives."

Donations for the 2nd Annual Appeal can be made by sending in a check payable to "Bay Street Theatre" and mailed to Bay Street Theatre, P.O. Box 810, Sag Harbor, NY 11963. Credit cards are also accepted. For more information, call Marylou McBrown in the Development office at 631-725-0818. For more information on patron levels and benefits, log on to www.baystreet.org. Click on "Ways To Give" and then "Memberships."

Bay Street Theatre is a not-for-profit institution presenting new, classic and contemporary works with a commitment to challenging and entertaining our diverse community. This commitment extends to educational programs for all ages to foster the continued value of theatre as a vital art form for future generations.