Community Council on the Performing Arts begins fund drive for green room addition

The invitations read, "Let us entertain you!" The Community Council on the Performing Arts hosted a gala performance and green room fund-raiser on Sunday, Feb. 12, at the Fox Playhouse, calling attention to the CCPA's goal of making what CCPA president Kim Bessey says is a vital improvement to the facility.

The fund-raiser began at 6:30 and the festivities were scheduled to last until 8:30 p.m. The CCPA's initial goal was to match the $15,000 donation that they had already received.

More than 400 invitations were delivered to former patrons and performers. The entertainment included two reprised characters.

The CCPA hosted the event because of the dire need they have for a green room. What is a green room? A green room is an area that is set aside for the performers to get ready, relax and congregate in between scenes.

Bessey said that the need was illustrated recently in a production of "Li'l Abner."

"When they weren't on stage, they were in the parking lot applying makeup in a food trailer!" Kim Bessey the president of the CCPA said. The need is urgent and the players cannot operate the way they should without it.

For more information on how to donate or upcoming events, call the CCPA at (417) 667-5611.