The Covid-19 pandemic has been hard on so many industries, but perhaps none more than the performing arts. Performers, designers, technicians, and administrative support staff at nearly every venue in the country have been unable to work, and many have lost their jobs or been laid off. The American Society of Theatre Consultants (ASTC) decided it was important to help. The Board of Directors, on behalf of ASTC, has made a donation of $2,000 to Broadway Cares / Equity Fights AIDS (www.broadwaycares.org) and $3,000 to Behind the Scenes (www.behindthescenescharity.org).

Because of travel restrictions and the cancellation of meetings, ASTC ended the year with cash reserves that made this donation possible. Each of the charities raises awareness and funds for those who are struggling during this difficult time. Peter Rosenbaum, ASTC President said, “We are grateful that we’ve had an opportunity to help this year, and we hope to share some of our resources with those who create the performances within the venues that we design.”

Lori Rubinstein, Executive Director of Behind the Scenes wrote to ASTC Secretary-Treasurer R. Duane Wilson, FASTC: “We are very grateful that you chose BTS as a beneficiary of your savings from holding virtual meetings. Your donation, especially this year, will have an enormous impact.” Nick Mayo from BC/EFA sent a note of thanks, saying their organization is “…saving lives by providing nutritious meals, life saving medications and care for the most vulnerable among us.”

By Paul Sanow, ASTC