The Lincoln Theater will be putting more of an emphasis on developing community-based and education programs and programming.... 

EXPANDING THE TRADITION OF SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY

The original charter for the Friends of the Lincoln Theater was to “transform the Lincoln Theater into a first-class modern facility in order to improve and expand the cultural and education opportunities for the resident Veterans and the public at large.” And, that they did magnificently.

In the succeeding years, the mission grew and the goal became “to bring performing arts and culture to the entire North Bay and to be an asset to the Napa Valley and to the Veterans Home." And, that they did also.

Now under new management and with a revitalized Board, there is a renewed focus on the founders’ “social contract” with the community.  While bringing a diversified slate of world-class entertainment to this world-class venue will continue to be the primary focus, enriching the lives of all who pass through the doors will once again become a top priority.

The Lincoln Theater will be putting more of an emphasis on developing community-based and education programs and programming; on increasing collaborative relationships with other nonprofits (including a closer association with the Pathway Home) and generally enhancing its service to the community.

In addition to the 120 tickets given to the Veterans Home for every single performance at the Lincoln Theater, this season we will increase our complimentary or deeply discounted tickets to social and human services organizations, to performing arts groups, to senior citizens, to public and private schools and numerous other nonprofits.

The Lincoln will continue and look to expand its tradition of giving specially discounted rates to community-based nonprofits and not-for-profits for performances, rehearsals, meetings and fundraising events.   A few of those that have repeatedly benefited from the Lincoln Theater’s philanthropic pricing include: the Napa Valley Symphony (the Lincoln has been the Symphony’s performance home from day one), Festival Del Sole, the Napa Valley Ballet, Napa Regional Dance Company, California Theatre Center, Lamplighters Musical Theater, the Youth Theater, the Youth Symphony and Justin Sienna High School (“Phantom of the Opera” sold out every performance).  Many other schools have also utilized the facilities such as Napa High, St. Helena High, Blue Oak School, New Tech High, River School, West Park Elementary and First Christian.

While our service to the community will be multi-faceted, the focal point is the development of a comprehensive education program.  Key components of the education initiative include: after school and weekend workshops in music, dance and theater for Middle and High School students; summer programming that allows young people to act, dance and sing along side professional actors; year-round mentorship/internship program for 16-22 year olds teaching all aspects of the theater; talent show-based programming that inspires young people to learn performing art as well as life skills; and collaboration with all the local schools (K-12) to supplement the lack of opportunities for performing arts education due to state and federal budget cuts.

“To do this right, we will need a full-time education director, a part-time music director and a lot of support from the community,” explained Michael Madden, the new Managing Director.   “We will look for grants as well as directed giving by individuals and corporations to achieve our goal.   But, we aren’t going to wait until we are completely funded to get some of the elements of the initiative underway.  We will be making some very important announcements in the coming weeks.

Lincoln Theater's Youth Theater production of "Godspell" in June 2011