We’re reaching out today not just as a theatre company—but as fellow lovers of the arts who know how vital creativity is to the heart of a community.

You may have heard: the National Endowment for the Arts has seen deep cuts recently, and now, here in California, Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a 58% cut to state arts funding. This includes eliminating the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund, a critical support system for small companies like ours that ensures fair pay for artists and staff.

These cuts don’t just affect institutions—they impact people. Artists, designers, stage managers, administrators. Communities. Audiences. Kids in our education programs. Seniors who rely on the arts for connection. You.

We’ve seen too many beloved organizations forced to cancel seasons or close their doors entirely. Town Hall Theatre, a company that’s been part of the Lafayette community for over 80 years, is determined not to be one of them.

We don’t sound the alarm lightly. We’ve weathered tough times with creativity and grit, and we will continue to do so. But right now, we need your help.

If Town Hall has ever made you laugh, moved you to tears, helped you feel seen—please consider giving today. Whether it’s a first-time gift, a bump in your usual donation, or the purchase of a Hall Pass, every act of generosity helps.

And if you’re ready to go one step further: speak up. Make a call. Send an email. Give public comment. Tell our elected leaders that the arts matter. California Arts Advocates has made it easy with sample scripts and tools to help your voice be heard.

Let’s make sure Town Hall Theatre—and arts organizations across California—can keep doing what we do best: building community, sparking imagination, and telling stories that matter.

With gratitude and urgency,