Redmond's SecondStory Repertory needs $80,000 to stay afloat

Redmond may lose the SecondStory Repertory, the city's only professional theater, if the company cannot raise $80,000 by Dec. 31.

Now in its 11th season, SecondStory Rep has had periodic financial crises — including one in 2008, which led to a successful emergency drive that raised $15,000. But staffers say the current crisis is the worst in the theater's history.

Staffers say attendance at SecondStory's once-popular children's shows and its mainstage productions has steadily declined, as has funding from corporations and other donors.

And despite cutbacks in staff, further budget cuts and some well-attended benefits, the Redmond Center-based theater still faces a life-threatening cash crunch and is struggling to make payroll.

According to managing director Caitlin Frances and artistic director Susanna Wilson, the theater will mount the remaining 2009 productions as planned: the children's play "Bunnicula," and "The Christmas Cabaret" holiday show.

There will also be a SecondStory Rep benefit on Nov. 21, in Kirkland, called "Vegas or Bust." It will include an online auction with such items as a Mariners shirt signed by Ichiro and a trip to the 2010 Tony Awards ceremony in New York.

Individual donations of any amount are also encouraged. "Our long-term goal is to make Redmond a destination for theater and the fine arts, but we can't do it alone," said Wilson in a prepared statement. "With help, we can rebound. Left alone, the theater will fold."

More information: 425-881-6777 or www.secondstoryrep.org).

Misha Berson: mberson@seattletimes.com