The Power of Giving

From the Desk of the Executive Director, Kaela Altman

As 2014 starts to wind down to a close I find myself feeling nostalgic and grateful. When BoHo closed Parade on November 16, our Company members gathered together to toast the season, and celebrate what an incredible 10th year we have had.

• We produced four shows over the course of 16 months.
• We received another record year of Jeff Nominations, which reminded us of our power to create incredibly thoughtful theater.
• We saw over 1,000 people at general auditions throughout the year.
• And we shared our artistry with well over 3600 patrons who came out to support Live Theatre in Chicago.

Last night, in Times Square, a "Bono-less U2" presented a surprise concert in honor of World AIDS Day. After an introduction from former President Bill Clinton, the stage was glittered with A-listers from Bruce Springsteen, Carrie Underwood, Kanye West, and many, many more in honor of those who have lost their battle with AIDS, and in celebration of those who have survived. President Clinton said that in 2013, more people received treatment than were diagnosed, an incredible feat given the state of this crisis some twenty years ago.

And that got me thinking about the Power of Giving. Whether it's $5 or $5,000, every single contribution makes an impact. Contributing doesn't just build a bottom line, or close a revenue gap.

Giving, in it's purest sense, unites a Community of people in support of a common cause.

Giving and Theater are similar in that regard and is representational of a Community of People, a Community of Artists, coming together to share their gifts, their hearts, and their passions which can collectively effect change.

BoHo is incredibly lucky to share this space with our fellow artists and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who gives to storefront. On this #GivingTuesday, I ask that you share your support for your cause today. Whether it is BoHo, your local food pantry or animal shelter, or perhaps another cause near and dear to your heart, celebrate the Power of Giving today and remember the spirit of the season.

To those who have been a part of BoHo's 10 years, Thank You.