Like any business, Flashback must plan for fixed costs. Because we are a nonprofit theater, however, we must rely on the generosity of donors to help fill the gap between our ticket revenue and expenses. In benchmark regional theaters, about 60% of revenue comes from ticket sales, while the other 40% comes from donations and sponsorships.
How does my monthly gift benefit the performing arts community of Somerset?
Currently, these fixed costs are supporting not only Flashback Theater Co. but also McNeil Music Center, our collaborative partner. Together, our missions provide Somerset with a fuller performing arts landscape to enrich our lives and community. When you give on a monthly basis, you are supporting the long term vision of providing our performing artists space to learn, grow, and thrive. The collaboration between FbTC and MMC includes access to shared resources, including the performance space.
In September 2017 Flashback Theater Co. and McNeil Music Center opened a new performance and education center for the performing arts in the heart of downtown Somerset, Kentucky at 400 East Mt. Vernon Street, the former City Hall and Police Headquarters.
Recognized as area leaders in music and theater education and performance, Flashback Theater Co. and McNeil Music Center have created a partnership which promotes the performing arts as a valuable resource for the entire Lake Cumberland region. The new home allows the two organizations to expand their quality services to the fine arts community and provide a flexible and affordable performance venue for area music students and theater enthusiasts.
How does paying for rent support the arts?
Every business has overhead expenses. Nonprofits often get a bad reputation for spending money on overhead but it is the cost of doing business, regardless of tax status. By supporting these overhead costs, you enable us to focus solely on the work of our mission, allowing us to bring the community more performances, more outreach, and more art! Flashback Theater Co. is a registered 501(c)3 charity, and you can verify our status with the IRS Exempt Organization Select Check tool.
If you would like to learn more about common misconceptions of nonprofits, please click here.
Where will my monthly donation go?
Our monthly fixed costs are about $2,800. Monthly donations will go directly to those fixed costs so that we can focus on making art. Monthly costs include:
- $1500 - Rent
- $500 - Electric
- $200 - Water, gas, sewer, and sanitation
- $100 - Internet service
How will my donation be acknowledged?
You will receive an email receipt every month when your donation is processed. You will also receive an acknowledgement in the mail following your first donation, which will confirm how you prefer to be recognized in programs and other materials. If you would like to update or change that information, you may call or email Sommer at any time: 888-394-FBTC or [email protected].
How much of my donation actually makes it to Flashback Theater?
GiveGab charges a 5% fee for using this platform. (It is well designed and maintained so we definitely think its worth it for your ease of use!) There is also a credit card processing fee, which varies based on the card servicer. After you put in your donation amount and begin the transaction process, you will see exactly how much of your donation goes to fees. You will also have the option of covering those fees so that we receive 100% of your intended donation amount. Don't worry if you don't, though; your donation is fully tax-deductible either way!
How do I become a sustaining donor?
First, choose the amount you want to donate monthly. You can select from the levels we've provided or choose your own amount. Look for the check box that says "Make this a monthly gift." Check that box and complete the transaction, and you are all set! You will receive and email receipt and an acknowledgement in the mail. We are excited to have you as our sunlight donor!
What if I want to give directly to programming?
You may prefer to give directly to the arts programming you attend and love. If you feel that supporting our operating costs isn't matching the intent of your donation, please contact us directly about sponsorship options for our season productions, Let's Play! programming, or MMC's BeBop music classes. There are many ways to give and we will find the option that works best for you. (By default, all donations on this page will go to our operating fund so if that isn't a fit for you, please reach out before making your gift by emailing [email protected] or calling (888) 394-FBTC.)
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