Board Member Pledges $10,000

Today is Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement aimed at unleashing the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world.

In solidarity with that mission, Mac-Haydn Theatre board member Meg Dooley and her husband Peter LaVigne have made a generous commitment of $10,000 to the Bright Future Fund, which they will give in monthly installments of $1,000 for the next 10 months.

Meg spoke about her motivations for giving: “For more than 25 years, the Mac-Haydn Theatre has been such an important and joyful part of our lives, it’s hard to imagine a summer in Chatham without it. But we will get through it – just this once! Peter and I are committed to doing everything we can to make sure the Mac-Haydn Theatre is back and stronger than ever in 2021.”
Meg and Peter’s commitment highlights the benefit of making a monthly donation both for the theatre and for the donor. “Knowing that this recurring gift will be coming in for the next 10 months is hugely beneficial in helping us determine our plans as we navigate through this crisis.” said Mac-Haydn managing director James Rodgers.

Meg also offered an especially unique incentive to others who follow her lead: “Join us in supporting the Bright Future Fund. In recognition of your generous gift, I promise that in a future season, I will return to the MHT stage for my FOURTH appearance as Mrs. Higgins in My Fair Lady – right, John Saunders???…”.

A huge thank you to Meg and Peter for their generous support!

Donate To The Bright Future Fund

Postpones 2020 Season Lineup Until 2021

As time marches on during this crisis, it has become obvious that our only responsible decision is to cancel the 2020 season. This decision did not come lightly and has weighed heavily upon me since this crisis began. I am nothing if not an optimist, but I have realized that the most important thing is the health and safety of our audience, artists, volunteers, and staff. Second to that is my commitment to see the Mac-Haydn Theatre survive through this historical moment. Cancelling this season is the only way to see our incredible organization move forward into the summer of 2021.

Currently, the plan is to present this season’s line-up of shows in 2021. The buzz and excitement that was already building makes this an easy decision. The enthusiastic response from our audiences about the shows planned has been extraordinary and we will work tirelessly through this coming year to bring these shows to life when we reopen the theatre next spring.

So what happens next? I am thrilled to tell you that plans are underway for some exciting events that could potentially take place later this summer if we are able to gather together. We are also exploring several exciting virtual possibilities that can keep us connected both now and into the future. Rest assured, we will keep you posted every step of the way so you can still be a part of Mac-Haydn’s audience, or as so many like to call it… the Mac Family.

Many of you may not realize how significantly this crisis has impacted us. 85% of our annual budget comes directly from ticket sales generated through both subscriptions and individual sales throughout the summer. Needless to say, this puts the future of the theatre in very serious jeopardy.

Now, more-than-ever before in our history, we need your help. I know this is such a difficult time for so many of us and the uncertainty of what lies ahead is overwhelming to say the least. Your contributions to us at this time are so critical to our survival. More than anything, I want the Mac-Haydn to weather this difficult time so we can be here for you and your family and share in the joy that flows so heartily every summer.

If you have purchased tickets for the 2020 season, please go to our Postponement Ticket Information page to fill out a form letting us know how you would like us to handle your tickets.

I will miss seeing you all terribly this summer and pray that time flies by quickly. Please stay safe, healthy, and surrounded by love. We will be sure to stay in touch with each and every one of you as we work diligently to keep the Mac-Haydn moving towards a bolder and brighter future.

My best wishes,
John Saunders | Producing Artistic Director

Donate To The Bright Future Fund

Ticket Postponement Information