The Theatre's leadership is urging the public to purchase tickets to the remaining 13 performances of High School Musical, which runs through Jan. 11, 2009.

"Effects of the crumpling economy, lower than expected donations and ticket sales all season long have left the theatre unable to cover its operating costs – a national decade-long trend that is impacting theatres across the country. Further compounding the problem is debt that resulted from a devastating fire in 2005 that forced the theatre to make a major investment in its facilities," according to a press statement.

In the statement David Fellows, Chairman of NSMT's Board, said, "We had been making solid progress on all fronts, however, with the economic situation so dire, we've run out of time. To keep the doors open, we need an immediate infusion of nearly a half-million dollars by the end of January and overall support of as much as $4 million by late spring to secure programming for next season. We are hopeful that our friends and supporters can help save this phenomenal cultural resource and we are appealing for widespread support."

Barry Ivan, NSMT's artistic director and executive producer, added, "We need our collective community to come together in support of this theatre. We're appealing to the public to help us keep this artistic jewel alive. Every dollar contributed would be an investment in our ability to carry out the financial and creative strategies we believe will ensure the theatre’s future."

North Shore Music Theatre, which began operating in 1955, is the largest non-profit producing theatre in New England. For more information or to purchase tickets to North Shore's productions, call (978) 232-7200 or visit www.NSMT.org.