A Message From The Artistic Director


Dear Supporters,

It’s so hard to believe the summer has already come to a close—time sure did fly by this season. As I reflect on the overwhelming attendance and success the Mac saw this season, I am reminded of how grateful I am to each and every artist, staff member, volunteer, and loyal audience member that keeps this magical place running year in and year out. This summer was truly a triumphant one as we welcomed back such large crowds to so many hit shows.

We did have a stumble at the end thanks to that bug that just won’t quit. However, we did manage to sustain our special programming and our highly successful education program which really gives us a great sense of accomplishment and a wonderful sense of closure to the summer. I am so sorry we had to cancel the remaining Wonderettes performances but I can assure you that I will make it up to you next season!

Work is well underway and it looks like another terrific lineup of shows is heading your way for 2024. Planning the upcoming season is a huge undertaking each year and without your support to carry us through the off season, it would be simply impossible. Along with the season planning also comes the constant maintenance and improvement of the theater and our housing.

Your donations to the annual fund mean so much to the young artists who arrive each year to dazzle us all summer. They also mean the world to the staff who are able to ensure the best of the best in all departments each summer. The Mac-Haydn continues to deliver such high caliber theater each year and it is all thanks to you, our audience, who continues to support us and enjoy the offerings all season.

On a personal note, it has been such an honor and a pleasure serving as the artistic director here, and as always, I promise to deliver another hit season for 2024. Thank you for your support, loyalty, and trust year in and year out. It means the world to me.

Have a beautiful fall and holiday season and we will see each other before you know it!

My best always,

John Saunders
Artistic Director

Volunteer

We hear it a lot: "I don't know how you do it!"

Well, we don't do it alone. Our volunteers who you see ushering, in the food booth and coffee house are the backbone of our theatre and we are always looking for more.

    Here are some specific things our volunteers assist with.
  • Housing: Maintenance and setup for our artists and technical team.
  • Hosting: We are often looking for additional space for our talented and interesting teams. Please fill out our Housing Information Form if you are interested in hosting an artist for part or all of the summer. We will work with you to find a good fit.
  • Distribution: Rack cards and posters around Columbia County.
  • Cars: we have a small fleet that are stored for the winter. These need to be started up and taken for service and check-ups.
  • Copying: Scripts, inserts, and other incidental things. It's a very necessary but time consuming process.
  • Lawn Mowing and Gardening: Having some help with our extensive properties would be wonderful.

Please contact us at jrodgers@machaydntheatre.org to inquire further about becoming a volunteer.