“A long time ago we realized that cultural events rarely pay for themselves and need outside support.  So, if you want to see things happening in the Theatre, you need to be ready to help out financially.”  --Don Pollard

Don Pollard and David Ralston have been supporting the Theatre in many ways since they first moved here 15 years ago (including both financially and through their expertise in the operation and financing of ongoing cultural facilities—they had both been involved in the restoration of the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and the Pasadena Playhouse).

In 2007, after the appearance of the Seattle Opera Young Artists at the Theatre, Don and David asked Merritt Olsen what it would take to make sure the group would return.  Merritt told them the price tag of the contract, and the duo turned around and said, “Here is the check.” The Seattle Young Artists returned in November 2008.

Don and David believe this concept of “underwriting” is critical for the theatre’s success, especially in light of the current economic times.  Pointing out that this would be an augmentation of the Theatre’s current fund raising, Don thinks there are other Theatre supporters who would be willing to help finance specific musical groups or plays to bring to Friday Harbor. [In fact, our second set of underwriters, Carolyn and Krissy Haugen, are helping us bring one of their favorite groups, Tuck & Patti, to the Whittier stage on February 21.]

Underwriters can be individuals or even groups of individuals—folks with common interests in bringing a certain type of entertainment to our island.  They can be anonymous or included in our promotional materials surrounding the event. 

As Don and David have so graciously demonstrated, underwriters are important investors in the future of the Theatre -- an island treasure that is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.