Ocean State Theatre Co. Award $150,000 Matching Grant

Ocean State Theatre Company (OSTC), which recently concluded its Inaugural Season in its new state-of-the-Art Theatre inWarwick, is thrilled to announce that they have received a $150,000 Matching Challenge Grant from a small group of anonymous donors. All unrestricted tax-deductible donations, including individual or corporate sponsorships, made to Ocean State Theatre Company until December 31, 2013, will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $150,000.

"This is by far the largest gift we have ever received and a wonderful testament to the work we are doing," said Amiee Turner, OSTC's Producing Artistic Director. "To know that what we have been working so hard to bring to our fellow Rhode Islanders is valued and supported is a wonderful feeling. There is no doubt this has been a challenging year for OSTC, which includes growing from a summer only organization to a year-round company, expanding our full-time staff from seven to 27, and constructing this beautiful theatre. We are truly humbled by this extraordinary generosity."

The Challenge Grant will kick start the company's fund raising as it moves toward its first full season, which begins in the fall with the Rhode Island regional theatre premiere of the mega hit, LES MISERABLES,

"Ticket sales alone do not cover the cost of operating a not-for-profit theatre," said OSTC's Board Chair, Anthony Miccolis. "In order for us to maintain the quality of our productions, expand our educational programs, continue employing professional musicians to play live music during musical performances, and reinvigorate our nationally recognized Intern/Apprentice Program, they must be subsidized to ensure accessibility. Contributions from both individuals and corporations are an essential ingredient. This gift tells us that folks want a professional regional theatre like OSTC in Warwick."

Ocean State Theatre Company invites the community to show its support and Meet the Match! Donations may be made at the box office, online 24 hours a day at www.OceanStateTheatre.org and via telephone during normal box office hours by calling (401) 921-6800. Ocean State Theatre is located at 1245 Jefferson Boulevard in Warwick, RI.

Tickets for the company's summer production of Legally Blonde The Musical, several special events in August, and subscriptions for the 2013-14 Season are currently on sale to the public. The box office is open Monday through Friday from 12 noon - 6:00 pm, Saturdays from 12 noon - 4:00 pm, and from 12 noon until curtain on performance days.

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