Donations Pour In to Save Actor's Express

It been just about two weeks since Actor's Express Theatre in West Midtown made a  for donations. The theater in King Plow Arts Center said it would have to close its doors unless it raised enough money to sustain operations. 

"Our theatre is at a critical juncture -- a true life or death moment," Artistic Director Freddie Ashley said Feb. 23 in a letter. To save Actor's Express, Ashley said the theater needed $50,000 by the end of March and an additional $150,000 by the end of July. 

Since then, Actor's Express has received an outpouring of support, according to Lara Smith, managing director. 

"We are currently at $35,000 in the door and another $9,600 pledged," Smith said in email Tuesday. 

More than 200 people have provided donations, she said. 

"It's been pretty incredible," Smith said. People have donated anywhere from $5 to $500, she said. "We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support -- through money, kind words, and volunteering services. Of course, we have a ways to go towards our second goal of $150,000, but we’re getting mighty close to the $50,000 needed by the end of March."

Smith said she hopes people will come see the new show at Actor's Express, "See What I Wanna See," which runs March 20 through April 16. 

To donate to the theater, visit the website, pay through PayPal or call 404-875-1606.