Intiman Theatre Raises $1 Million in Pledges, 2012 Festival Moves Forward

Intiman Theatre has met its pledge goal of $1 million., and as a result the Intiman Board of Trustees has voted to reopen Intiman and move forward with production of the 2012 Intiman Theatre Festival. The vote of the Trustees enables Artistic Director, Andrew Russell, to proceed in the production of the Theatre’s new festival model – a four-play summer festival season curated from a collective of local artists and performed by a repertory company of 12 local actors. All money pledged to date will go directly towards supporting the 2012 production season.

“We’ve taken the last nine months to regroup, reorganize and strategize on how best to seize this opportunity, and we’re so thrilled this community has rallied to help us blaze towards the finish line,” said Andrew Russell, Artistic Director. “We’re here because of them, no question. Our producing and creative teams stand ready to begin their work, and we look forward to now putting our energy and momentum back where it belongs – the work on stage.”

"Since the closure of the theatre approximately nine months ago, the Board of Trustees worked tirelessly to develop a plan that was financially viable, reflective of the Intiman's excellent artistic reputation, and deserving of the community's support. The trustees resolved that the theatre would only move forward with a season if the full amount needed for its production was pledged."

In celebration of the theatre’s 40th anniversary, the 2012 festival will take audiences on a theatrical ride that pays tribute to the theatre’s history and sets the stage for the future. The 2012 festival lineup will include:

· A production of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet directed by Allison Narver

· Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler, directed by Andrew Russell, choreographed by Olivier Wevers, starring Marya Sea Kaminski

· Valerie Curtis-Newton directing an American classic with the first act in the Studio Theatre, and second act in the courtyard

· A new production conceived and directed by Dan Savage

“Most people know me as the guy that writes about sex, or the guy who started It Gets Better, but I began my career in theatre” said Dan Savage, director. “Intiman has invited me to direct something spectacular this summer, and I'm thrilled, stoked - even giddy - at the prospect of heading back into the rehearsal hall."

"Intiman’s retooled business model, combined with the restructured board and improved oversight procedures will enable the delivery of high-quality theatre and financial stability. Intiman will retire its remaining vendor debt over a period of time and will honor 2011 subscription tickets in the 2012 season."

"These plans were developed by the board and artistic director Andrew Russell with wise counsel and capable, pragmatic assistance from arts consultant Susan Trapnell of Arts Consulting Group, Inc. and feedback and advice from arts colleagues, donors, subscribers, and civic leaders."

"We couldn't have achieved this result without a committed board, a tireless and dedicated artistic director, guidance from experienced advisors, and a broad base of donors who have pledged their financial resources to support our vision of what Intiman Theatre can become,” said Terry Jones, president of the Intiman Board of Trustees. “I am sincerely grateful for the ongoing commitment and support of everyone in this process.”

Those interested in purchasing tickets or pledging additional support can learn more on the theatre’s website at www.intiman.org. The 2012 season will be Intiman’s 40th and the summer festival will coincide with the Next Fifty celebrations at the Seattle Center.