ASKING FOR HELP. Since closing the Rose Theatre and the Starlight Room March 15th, I have been able to cover fixed expenses with savings, three loans, one federal grant, four theatre grants, temporary rent abatement, numerous donations, movie streaming, and gift card, membership and popcorn sales. (Our federal PPP loan application was denied). By some stroke of luck - and with the kindness and generosity of many people - all of this has been just enough to pay the bills these past six months. But some of these resources are no longer available, and with no end in sight to our closure, just getting by for the next six months is unlikely.
Under Washington's phased approach for business re-openings, movie theatres can only open in Phase 3, and at that time occupancy is limited to 25% of capacity. Twenty-five percent equals 69 people between our 3 venues. Assuming a "sell out" with that equation, operating expenses would exceed income. It's a no-win scenario.
The reality is, I have no idea if we'll be re-opening this year, next year, or at all. The deeper reality is that for the second time in our 28-year history I need to ask for your financial help. We have launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $110K to help cover expenses through through February 2021. The GoFundMe site explains in detail how these funds will be used.
It is not easy acknowledging or asking for this kind of help. That our closure was for the health and safety of staff and patrons doesn't lessen the unease of asking for money. But knowing how the Rose is appreciated by many people, an absence of transparency about our situation feels irresponsible. Sharing this campaign with friends would help us tremendously, and a heartfelt thank you to those of you who are able to contribute.
Rocky
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In memory of actor Chadwick Boseman, who passed away from cancer at age 43 last week, here's a beautiful remembrance from The New Yorker by Richard Brody.
NOMAD: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BRUCE CHATWIN is still streaming on our site. "One of the most deeply personal films of Herzog's long and brilliant career." -RogerEbert.com
Starting next Friday, September 9th, JIMMY CARTER: ROCK & ROLL PRESIDENT.
Pop-up popcorn on sale this Saturday, September 5th, 2:00 - 5:00.
Rocky