A  LETTER FROM THE DIRECTORS

Dear Patrons,

After a year and a half closure, the Pollard Theatre opened its doors with its first production of the 34th Season, The 39 Steps. Together we faced an immensely difficult challenge and welcomed audiences back, promising more live shows than ever before. The show’s success can only be attributed to the continued support and generosity of our community. We thank you.

Unfortunately, our challenges are not over. During preparation for the season, our building was struck during an electrical storm wiping out a large portion of our lighting and audio equipment. Our limited staff frantically worked night and day, mounting and resetting a rented lighting system to ensure the show would go on. But fate can be a cruel mistress, and on August 21st, thirty minutes before showtime, our system experienced another lightning strike depleting our remaining technical infrastructure.  

Due to the extensive damage, we have been forced to cancel our production of Dracula. 

While the announcement is heartbreaking, we have also gained perspective into our current circumstances. Our theatre is a historical legacy of Oklahoma. The building was crafted in 1901 from native stone, and while she has experienced numerous transitions over the last 100 years, our equipment and infrastructure have not been updated since the early 1980s. We have realized that much like our founding members; we must roll up our sleeves and face the challenges ahead to ensure the Pollard Theatre remains a historical symbol for generations to come. 

Moving forward, we will be shifting our seasonal programming as the complexity of our obstacles will require more time to improve. Our passionate staff and Board of Directors are currently developing strategies to rebuild and upgrade our infrastructure to provide you complete and adequate programming to our standards. In addition to exciting interactive fundraising events, we will be returning with the new classic, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play, on Friday, November 26th, 2021. 

Fortunately, our friends at Cory’s Audio Visual have graciously allowed us to temporarily borrow equipment for the remainder of the season.

Words cannot express our gratitude to you, our loyal Pollard patrons. We realize the situation is frustrating, and we ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate the challenges ahead.

Our Box Office will be contacting current ticket holders to make arrangements. We are coming to you now to ask for your continued support of local theatre and invite you to kindly consider a tax-deductible donation of your ticket to Dracula back to the theatre or exchanging your tickets for another show in place of a refund.

Since 1919 the Pollard has been an institution that inspires community. Let us come together, to create and build a foundation that ensures another glorious 100 years of artistic integrity. Together, “we can experience a stage of inspiration” and hopefully make a foundation of strength. Until then, friends, please check our website and social media platforms for seasonal updates and events.

Very sincerely,

Jared Blount, Artistic Director

Kara Luther-Chapman, Executive Director