The Westport Country Playhouse has been awarded a $50,000 Challenge Grant from Newman’s Own Foundation, the independent foundation created by the late actor and philanthropist, Paul Newman, it was announced today.
In conjunction with the Playhouse’s year-end fundraising appeal, Newman’s Own Foundation will match all annual fund gifts up to $50,000 through Dec. 31.
The Newman’s Own Foundation Challenge Grant will help to highlight the important role of philanthropy in sustaining the nonprofit theater where ticket sales account for less than half of the operating budget, an announcement said.
“Sustained support from foundation partners like Newman’s Own Foundation allows the Playhouse to create professional theater of the highest quality in our broadest community,” said Michael Barker, Playhouse managing director.
“Our shared history of personal support from Paul Newman makes this relationship truly special.”
Newman’s Own Foundation uses all net profits and royalties from the sale of Newman’s Own food and beverage products for charitable purposes. Since 1982, Paul Newman and Newman’s Own Foundation have donated over $550 million to thousands of charities around the world.
“Westport Country Playhouse is such a treasure and an icon of the arts in our community,” said Kelly Giordano, managing director of Newman’s Own Foundation. “We are pleased to be able to continue our longstanding support to this special organization that Paul Newman held so dear.”
Annual fund gifts can be made online at http://www.westportplayhouse.org/support, or by calling the Playhouse at 203-571-1138.
