The Wayne Theatre Alliance campaign to return the former movie theatre to the community as a performing arts center was given a new boost. The Cabell Foundation of Richmond announced a major $200,000 challenge grant to the WTA, the largest single foundation grant to the Alliance’s capital campaign.
The grant must be matched by contributions made after May 21, 2015. When the match is completed, a total of $400,000 will be available. Those funds will be used to make additions to the equipment and furnishings in the Wayne Theatre auditorium.
The Cabell Foundation was founded in 1957 by Mr. Robert G. Cabell III and Mrs. Maude Morgan Cabell. The private, non-operating foundation is dedicated to support the permanent needs of charitable organizations throughout Virginia. Since its inception, the Cabell Foundation has provided permanent gifts and challenge grants to a diverse mix of nonprofit institutions. Mr. and Mrs. Cabell believed the Foundation should taking a leadership role in initiatives that would inspire the community to action. The grant to the Alliance is in keeping with that philosophy.
“The Cabell Challenge is a vote of confidence in the Wayne Project,” said Dr. Clair Myers, executive director of the Wayne Theatre Alliance. “It reaffirms the dedication of the Alliance to save the landmark building and return it to life as a performing arts center. We look forward to meeting the challenge.”
The $400,000 investment will provide an orchestra pit lift, a full rigging system, and additional sound, light and video equipment, all of which will make the Wayne what has been promised ‘the best intimate performance space in Central Virginia.’
“There is some urgency in our meeting the challenge of The Cabell Foundation,” said Bill Hausrath, chair of WTA’s Board of Directors. “Some of the equipment is designed and built to order. The deadline for placing those orders is fast approaching. This makes it essential that the $200,000 in matching funds be found as soon as possible.”
The Foundation’s challenge means that every new dollar raised by the Alliance will be matched. Donors to the Wayne Project will have the pleasure of knowing their impact on the renovation will be doubled.
Arrangements to make donations to meet the Cabell Challenge Grant can be made by calling the WTA office at 540-943-9999. The terms of the Challenge Grant allow for donations and pledges to be counted towards the match.
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Chris Graham
