FREDONIA - The 1891 Fredonia Opera House recently met - and then exceeded - its membership goal for the calendar year 2012, according to Opera House executive director Rick Davis.
Davis notes that the Opera House established a goal of 500 annual members three years ago. "We came very close to attaining that level of membership in 2011, with a total of 492 members," he said. "But this year, we met our goal of 500 members - and, shortly thereafter, exceeded it. We currently have a total of 524 members, the highest ever in the Opera House's 18-year history."
Davis notes that Opera House membership has been tracked since 1995, the theatre's first full year of programs.
Article Photos
Ron Johnson’s membership renewal made him the 500th person to join or renew membership in the Fredonia Opera House this year, helping the theatre to meet its 2012 record membership goal. Opera House executive director Rick Davis (left) is shown presenting Johnson with Opera House Cinema Series tickets in recognition of his status as the Opera House’s 500th member.
"We had a total of 128 members that year; and except for a tiny decline from 2004 to 2005, the number has grown each year since then."
He is quick to note, however, that even though the membership goal has been met, that does not mean the Opera House is still not seeking new or renewing members.
"Membership contributions account for less than 20 percent of the Opera House's annual revenues. So we are always looking for new members," he said. "Anyone can become a member for as little as $35; and the benefits begin immediately upon joining. So it's never too late to join."
Membership benefits include discounts on tickets to most Opera House events; recognition in the Opera House program; a subscription to "Backstage," the Opera House member newsletter; invitations to special members-only receptions and events, and advance notice of major announcements and programs. To become a member, call the Opera House Box Office at 679-0891 and ask for a membership form; or visit the Opera House website at www.fredopera.org. Click on "Membership & Giving" at the top of the page to download a form. Chautauqua County's only performing arts center presenting its own programming year-round, the 1891 Fredonia Opera House is a member-supported nonprofit organization located in Village Hall in downtown Fredonia. A complete schedule of events is available at www.fredopera.org.