Arts & Entertainment

It's 'Life or Death' for cash-strapped Actor's Express

Actor's Express in West Midtown could close its door due to financial struggles, artistic director says.

The "situation is dire" for Actor's Express Theatre in West Midtown, according to Artistic Director Freddie Ashley.

Financial struggles may force the theater in King Plow Arts Center to close its doors after 23 years. 

"Our theatre is at a critical juncture -- a true life or death moment," Ashley said Wednesday in a letter. Read the full letter here.

Find out what's happening in Midtownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"We are fighting to make it through an extraordinarily difficult time for the arts in Atlanta," Ashley said. "Decreased discretionary spending and a reduction in philanthropic support have dramatically impacted our revenues."

To save Actor's Express, Ashley said the theater needs $50,000 over the next four weeks and an additional $150,000 over the next four months. 

Find out what's happening in Midtownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Actor's Express started in a church basement in 1988. The theater performs five to six productions each year. Patrons have said the theater offers productions that are edgy or unusual. 

"Actor's Express is a cultural jewel and an Atlanta treasure," Ashley said. "Twenty-three years ago, founder Chris Coleman had a vision for a dynamic and innovative theater, and spent the next decade building it into a vibrant institution that reached out to many diverse areas of our community."

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


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Midtown