Amid a flurry of construction sawdust and theatre academy registrations, momentum has picked up for the Springer Opera House capital campaign. Within the past fourteen days, two anonymous donors have pledged $1.1 million.
The Springer’s campaign to build a children’s theatre and youth education center has received a jolt of energy with word that two Southeastern foundations have made pledges totaling $1.1 million. Springer officials say both philanthropic foundations wish to remain anonymous.
“These amazing gifts push our total to $9.8 million and puts us within striking distance of our $11.5 million goal,” announced producing artistic director Paul Pierce. “This is where the community will step in to make its mark on the project. Another $1.7 million and we’re there.”
The Springer is in the final stage of its campaign. Local theatre lovers, businesses and private donors are being asked to complete the fund drive.
“There are many, many people here who love the Springer and recognize its profound importance to the community so I’m confident we will get there,” said Pierce.
Springer trustee and former actress Dorothy W. McClure launched the campaign with a $3 million pledge on behalf of the McClure Family Foundation. Another 180 individuals, corporations and foundations were inspired to add $6.8 million to the McClure gift, accounting for the Springer’s current $9.8 million total.
The Springer has already broken ground on Phase One of the project – the children’s education center – and that construction will be complete by Memorial Day. The education center will allow the Springer to double its capacity to serve children and will open June 6.
Construction on the new McClure Theatre complex will begin once the campaign has reached it its goal. The completed project will reclaim seven derelict downtown buildings and activate the blocks along First and Second Avenues.
“Our vision is to reach every child in Columbus, Georgia and to help transform the community through character education,” said Ron Anderson, the Springer Theatre Academy director. “These two donors share that vision and they see what we’re doing as a pathway for community renewal.”
The campaign also includes expansion of the Springer’s facility endowment and preservation work on the National Historic Landmark building.
The two foundation gifts are in the amounts of $600,000 and $500,000. The first is a challenge grant which will be paid upon completion of the campaign and the second is for the historic improvements.
“These are very private, visionary foundations that don’t want to draw attention to themselves,” said Pierce. “They are simply excited about our quest to develop confident, collaborative young citizens and to making families stronger and happier.”
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