A $5,000 grant was recently given to Solvang Theaterfest as part of a fundraising event in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Solvang that brought comedian Brian Regan to perform live on stage at the theater in september.
Allan Jones, who served as event chairman for the Rotary Club of Solvang, credits the support of local business sponsors and fans across the Central Coast for a successful evening that exceeded initial fundraising goals.
“Many thanks to the Theaterfest staff and board for greenlighting this first-ever comedy show at the theater,” he said. “It was a pleasure to work in tandem with Theaterfest to bring such a quality performance to the Santa Ynez Valley.”
According to a theater spokesperson, the Rotary Club and the theater split the proceeds from the sold-out show, a portion of which the Rotary Club used to donate $5,000 to Imagine! Building the future of fundraising.
The theater’s $5.3 million renovation project, which began construction in September 2021 and was completed in July 2022, ensures structural integrity, safety and accessibility with new electrical and techniques that improve lighting and sound. Audience experience and comfort has also been improved with the installation of a taller acoustic wall and new seating.
Funds raised are also used by Rotary to fund international humanitarian causes and local projects such as Sunnyfields Park, scholarships, senior services and local non-profit organizations.
Jones noted that those in attendance said they felt better after the show.
“They say laughter is the best medicine,” he said. “We hope to bring Brian Regan back next year for an encore and provide another health service to our community.”
