The six-year-old Chekhov Theatre continues to move closer to its first production since it reorganized last year. In a move that signals well managed growth, the company is seeking to add a marketing staffer to “support an aggressive campaign which comprises one eighth of the overall budget for a Spring 2001 production of Eric Winick's new play, The Vocal Lords.”
The nonprofit Chekhov has developed original works in the past and runs “student programs in theatre” throughout New York City and Westchester County.
As reported earlier, the Chekhov Theatre has established something of a model for reorganizing a struggling theatre. Formerly located in the Theatre District, the company initiated a reorganization in 1999 and suspended operations pending financing. Since then, the group has networked extensively, enlisted top-level volunteers and assumed occupancy at new offices in Brooklyn under the auspices of the Alliance of Regional Theatres/New York (A.R.T./NY).
Artistic director Floyd Rumohr reports that Chekhov was successful is securing funding from the Jenesis Foundation, “a small Texas family foundation” that started giving Chekhov help a few years ago. “They appreciate our integrated programs,” Rumohr told Playbill On-Line, “particularly our `Stages of Learning' program for children.” Jenesis has provided general operating support for the Stages of Learning program as well.
At a mid-October fundraiser, Jenesis matched all contributions at a 3-1 ration, netting the Chekhov “close to $33,000,” Rumohr said. The Chekhov also benefits from financing from the Robert Sterling Clark Foundation, which is providing $25,000 to market a Spring 2001 production of The Vocal Lords. Rumohr will direct Eric Winick’s play, which involves “Brooklyn youth aspiring to stardom.” At this time, a 7-8 week run is predicted. While the Chekhov is still seeking two older characters as the aging counterparts of Ethan James Duff and Fred Berman (Chekhov’s King Lear).
For further information on the marketing position write Floyd Rumohr, Artistic Director, Chekhov Theatre Ensemble, 138 South Oxford Street, No. 1-B, Brooklyn, NY 11217 or visit [email protected] or http://www.chekhovtheatre.org
- By Murdoch McBride
