December 16, 2004

Donations by Theatre Company to families and wildlife in need

The Tabard Theatre Company recently closed its successful 10-performance run of the C.S. Lewis’ classic adventure fantasy “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” In keeping with its commitment to make a difference in the community through the arts, The Tabard Theatre Company invited patrons to bring items that would typically be found in a wardrobe, such as jackets, coats, sweaters and blankets, to donate to families in need this winter season. By its final performance, patrons had collectively donated over 15 barrels of winter clothing and blankets, which Tabard promptly delivered to Sacred Heart Community Service.

“When we started this drive related to the production, I never imagined people would respond so generously and enthusiastically,” says Tabard’s managing artistic director Cathy Spielberger Cassetta. “We’ve had food drives for other productions in the past but never had a response like this. The staff at Sacred Heart was very grateful and excited about the quantity and quality we delivered. What a blessing all around.”

For every production, the cast, staff and crew designate a nonprofit that is in some way related to the show to receive a portion of the concession proceeds. Nonprofits chosen for past productions include Second Harvest, CityTeam Ministries, Child Advocates, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Canine Companions, Emergency Housing Consortium, and Career Closet to name a few. The nonprofit chosen for “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” was the Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley. The center received over $160 from the production due in great part to the generosity of Tabard patrons and Charlie’s Cheesecake Works, one of Tabard’s Community Partners, which donated a portion of the cheesecakes served during intermission.

Tabard also had a record turnout for its special pre-show, hands-on presentation on Saturday, Nov. 20. Over 25 clients and guests from the Lions Silicon Valley Center for the Blind & Sight Impaired met with members of the cast and staff who passed around significant costumes and props as well as explained key and sight-driven moments from the production.

As the only theatre company in the South San Jose/Almaden area, The Tabard Theatre Company, a public benefit corporation, will continue its 2004-2005 season at Joint Venture Churches, 6581 Camden Avenue, San Jose. After “The Taffetas,” which runs Janu. 28–Feb. 13, Tabard will close its fourth season of family-friendly entertainment with the Tony award winning comedy “The Last Night of Ballyhoo,” auditions for which will be in January.

More information about Tabard is available online at www.tabardtheatre.org or by calling (408) 979-0231.