The American Express Performing Arts Fund recently donated $25,000 to San Diego's Old Globe Theatre to help implement a new "Student Subscription Series." The series not only makes professional theatre available to college students at reasonable prices but also provides marketing and drama students with an educational experience by participating in marketing the series to their classmates.

Working with such local universities as San Diego State, University of California, San Diego, University of San Diego and others, the Globe and American Express will build a program in which students and professionals develop a marketing campaign to raise awareness of theatre as an entertainment option and to promote this subscription series on their campuses.

The "Student Subscription Series" price represents a 68 percent savings off regular prices (three plays for $37.50) and includes the added excitement of attending on opening nights or enjoying free local bands on the Globe Plaza. Pub and shop discounts are also included.

"The series is a unique marketing program that builds upon our success with Teacher Appreciation Series. These marketing/educational programs are created to provide targeted groups with an introduction to the Old Globe Theatre through added- value experiences at a discounted price," said Globe marketing director Ken Novice in a statement.

"This program is unique in that it is designed and implemented by members of the demographic group we are serving. Students from business departments will be brought together with students in theatre departments to participate in a hands-on learning experience in the area of theatre marketing. Members of the Globe's professional staff will serve as group leaders," Novice said. -- By Willard Manus
Southern California Correspondent