The anonymous members recently announced a $100,000 matching challenge grant to benefit the historic movie theatre and concert venue. If the Colonial raises $100,000 by May 31, 2018 for its Bank on the Arts capital campaign, it will receive a $100,000 grant from the Chester County couple.
“We’ve had strong responses from our members to previous challenges,” noted Mary Foote, ACT Executive Director. “These have helped stimulate gifts ranging from $5 to $45,000 to the campaign. Every single dollar is needed and appreciated.”
Last May, ACT opened its new wing in the former Bank of Phoenixville building next door to the historic theatre. The space showcases two new theatres with seating for an additional 238 patrons, a spacious lobby with 30’ concession stand, and a beautiful rental suite with a rooftop deck. This expansion allows the Colonial to show three to five feature films per week on the ‘day and date’ they open nationally to the delight of patrons. Prior to the building expansion, the historic Colonial consisted of a 658-seat auditorium, a third floor event space and a modest lobby.
Through generous donations of up to $5.6M and additional financing from Malvern Federal Bank & Trust, project partners Carnevale Eustis Architects of Phoenixville and CH&E Construction Inc. of Lancaster were able to complete the expansion on budget – and on time.
“After just nine months of operation, ACT’s expansion is showing some of the anticipated growth in film attendance, concessions revenues, and new memberships,” explained Marian Moskowitz, ACT’s Board President and a Campaign co-chair. “This $100,000 challenge grant is an invitation to donors and business leaders to invest in a demonstrated success. Just as it has done since the late 90s, the Colonial continues to spur economic development in Phoenixville’s downtown.”
Naming opportunities are available, including the entire new wing and a dressing room used by visiting musicians and performers. To discuss a multi-year pledge, one-time gift or transfer stock or appreciated securities, contact the theatre’s business office at (610) 917-1228 or email Mary Foote, Executive Director, at mary@thecolonialtheatre.com. Or visit www.thecolonialtheatre.com/donate and give to ‘Bank on the Arts.’
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Located in the heart of downtown Phoenixville, The Colonial Theatre is owned and operated by Association for the Colonial Theatre (ACT), a nonprofit corporation. The historic, three-screen venue consists of the original 658-seat theatre and two new theatres in the adjacent Bank of Phoenixville building. Programming includes first-run, independent and classic films, young audience shows, concerts, and community events. For upcoming shows and times visit www.thecolonialtheatre.com.
Brendan Carr
Marketing Director
Association for The Colonial Theatre
