Performance Network Theatre Looks to Indiegogo to Raise Money for Children's Theatre Network

Performance Network Theatre has accepted the challenge to raise $4 thousand in 30 days to acquire new sound equipment for the Children's Theatre Network. The fundraiser is available for viewing on the crowdsourcing website, Indiegogo at http://igg.me/at/letourvoicesbeheard/x/815274 now through July 12, 2013.

The campaign video, in the style of a silent film, shows a beautiful young lady sitting alone on a park bench. When a mini-sized Chaplin impersonator, Inaudible Ichabod, approaches her with the biggest of frowns, the young girl mimes, "Why are you so sad?" Inaudible Ichabod explains via title screen, "Without sound equipment, no one can hear me." Then, with a flash of sound and color a group of children proclaim, "LET OUR VOICES BE HEARD."

Children's Theatre Network is a part of Performance Network Theatre, a leading theatre in Southeastern Michigan since 1981. The addition of sound equipment will help CTN reach more children and provide the following:

Original shows that entertain while educating and providing positive life lessons, performed at Performance Network Theatre, area schools and community centers.

After school classes at elementary schools that encourage literacy and healthy self-expression.

Theatre workshops, teaching students creativity, problem solving, and self-confidence.

"Get in the Game," an innovative program that utilizes theatre workshops and performances to combat high school dropout rates at high-risk high schools.

Jobs for local actors, instructors, playwrights, and directors who are passionate about positively influencing kids.

All donations will be used toward the purchase of sound equipment for the Children's Theatre Network's touring programs and shows. The campaign's contributions will be applied to five sound cables, two transportation cases, two microphone stands, one sound mixer, four wireless microphones, and two speakers.

According to the American Alliance for Theatre Education, drama activities improve reading comprehension, both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and can help youth recognize their potential for success and improve their confidence. Support theatre for children and support their overall well-being!

All donation amounts are accepted and appreciated for the campaign. Every donation level has specialized perks for the donors and their children.

For a $15 donation, donors will receive a personalized thank you letter with a list of theatre activities to try at home.

For a $40 donation, donors will have a special child (or children) recognized in the opening speech of their next Children's Theatre Network's performance.

For a $65 donation, donors will receive an opening speech shout out and a complimentary family package to a Children's Theatre Network show.

For a $90 donation, donors will receive two complimentary tickets to a Performance Network Theatre main stage production for a night without the kids.

For a $120 donation, donors will get a meet and greet with the cast during their next trip to the Children's Theatre Network.

For a $250 donation, donors will receive free admission to the Build-a-Play summer workshop for kids.

For a $600 donation, a special child in the donor's life will get to spend a day at the theatre, learning all aspects of the theatre: performing, directing, playwriting, set construction, and more!

For a $700 donation, a school of the donor's choosing will receive a free performance of a Children's Theatre Network touring production. The donor will be listed as the sponsor of the show.

For a $1,000 donation, donors will have a Children's Theatre Network character named after a child of their choosing! New works are developed every year for the Children's Theatre Network and donors can play a big part in the script!

For more information about the fundraiser or the Children's Theatre Network, visit performancenetwork.org or e-mail Children's Theatre Network Director, Becky Fox at becky@performancenetwork.org.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's resident professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and the Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside New Play Festival and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.

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