Mainstage Drive

Help the cast reach their goals!

Putting on high quality productions twice a year takes a lot of people and a lot of funding. In order to bring the show to the stage we need to rent lights and sound equipment, build sets, make costumes, print playbills and so much more.

What does it cost illuminate to produce a show?

You may have wondered just what goes into putting on a production like we do at illuminate? We're glad you asked! Some expenses you might guess, like costumes, but there are others you may not have considered. Select the items above to understand why fundraising is so important.

Past Production Gallery

Lighting Equipment and Special Effects

Lighting is a component of theatre that many overlook. In a shared historic theatre built without modern lighting equipment, we have to rely on rentals to make sure the cast is well lit, as well as to help tell the story. In addition, special effects like fog, haze, bubbles, and confetti all cost money, and are often necessary to tell the story on stage. Lighting and effects cost up to $4,000 per show - which is $6,000 - $12,000 per year!

Audio Equipment Rentals and Technicians

Audio is easily our most expensive item in a production. Working in large shared spaces, like Tolman, with outdated (or non-existent) sound systems means that in order for cast members to be heard they need to be mic'd. At a minimum, for each show we rent microphones, sound boards, cables, speakers and many other types of required equipment. To manage all of this equipment, we also need an experienced audio technician. This expense is over $6,000 per show - that's $12-18k per year!

Costume, Hair, and Makeup

We have had the incredible gift of several amazing costume designers in our community. From on-stage costume changes to detailed ball gowns, creating costumes that help the characters come to life is no small feat. Even with a shoestring budget and many trips to reclaim textiles from Savers, costumes, hair and makeup supplies, and even the accessories for each show can cost $300 or more.

We ask all cast members to raise around $300 each, depending on show budget, in order to help us reach the goals so we can bring the production to life. Please scroll down to donate and help the cast bring this show to the stage.

Mainstage Drive

Help the cast reach their goals!

What does it cost illuminate to produce a show?

Lighting Equipment and Special Effects

Audio Equipment Rentals and Technicians

Set Construction and Painting

Costume, Hair, and Makeup

Everything Else...

Complete this form to complete your tax-deductable donation to the Mainstage Drive and support the Year 14 casts.

Shoutouts, Ads, and Tributes