When we announced our status as a not-for-profit organization in the spring of 2023, we were excited for the next chapter at 54 Below. We understood the challenges this new financial undertaking would require during the transition period to sustain our decades-long company. We eagerly and thoughtfully made the transition and are humbled that you have partnered with us in our journey.
We are immensely grateful for Puffin Foundation West’s grant of $50,000 which directly supports artistic programming and initiatives at 54 Below. It is an important milestone because it is our first partnership with an institutional funder and reaffirms our belief in our work. Your gift significantly helps us achieve our first-year fundraising goals with more than $600,000 raised thus far in less than six months.
The Foundation’s long history of funding the arts on a national scale endorses and strengthens our reputation, presence, and engagement in New York and beyond. Thank you for your generosity which ensures our mission to preserve and expand the art of the cabaret while providing an unparalleled audience experience. Your investment in the future of 54 Below positively impacts us with programs that improve accessibility options for audiences of economically diverse backgrounds and geographic locations, and emerging artists seeking additional resources for artmaking.
With your grant we are solidifying 54 Below as the premiere venue for live cabaret performances and the preeminent location to see both established and emerging artists. Moreover, your gift positions us to grow the three initiatives that are at the very core of our mission and will continue to honor the cabaret tradition.
Ticket Subsidy Initiative
· Discounted ticket program, already in progress, that provides $15.00 tickets to students, artists, and underserved communities
· Increase accessibility for audience members who otherwise may not be able to cover the full cost of attending a live performance
Artist Subsidy Initiative
· Subsidize artists with funds to cover additional artist compensation, rehearsal space rentals, music preparation materials and other costs involved in the creation of performances
Live Streaming Initiative
- · Cover technology costs associated with streaming
- · Provide artists with the opportunity to reach audiences near and far
- · Archive of more than 180 performances available to over 20,000 fans worldwideLooking Ahead
We are immensely proud of the work we are doing to build a diverse audience and provide opportunities for underrepresented artists on our stage. Our current programming to meet these needs are celebrations of: Hispanic Heritage; Black History, Women’s History and LGBTQ (Pride). We have plans to expand upon these initiatives in FY24 and beyond.
In preserving and expanding the art of cabaret it is imperative that we expand our audience while also supporting emerging artists. Our plans include the launch of a new program for audience members under the age of 35 and a grant program for artists creating shows at 54 Below.
We will also continue to present audience favorites and the stalwarts of cabaret and Broadway including Marilyn Maye, Christine Ebersole, Liz Callaway and Anne Hampton Callaway, among numerous others.
Conclusion
We are saddened to learn of the closure of the Puffin West Foundation. We hope you take pride in remembering the many people and organizations you have helped since you gave your first grant in 1985. It is truly an honor to be aligned with the Puffin Foundation West and we thank you for the good work you have done for us and for so many others.
With gratitude and appreciation,
