Ensemble Theatre Company Hosts Salon
Artistic Team from Chapter Two Shares Insights With Donors
On Wednesday, November 30, on the eve of its production of Neil Simon’s Chapter Two, Ensemble Theatre Company hosted a Salon at the theatre for major donors. The event afforded donors the opportunity to meet the artistic team and get a behind-the-scenes look at the production.
The evening began with a lively reception that spanned the Landing (front patio), the Lobby, and the interior Courtyard. Well-placed space heaters, a well-stocked bar, and tasty hors d’oeuvres from Omni Catering kept donors and the artistic team warm and happy as they mingled.
The 80 or so donors, all Leadership Giving Circles supporters, then adjourned to the theatre for brief, interesting presentations by artistic director Jonathan Fox, dramaturg Anna Jensen, and director Andrew Barnicle. Donors also got to hear insightful thoughts from members of the cast, the scenic designer, and the costume designer.
ETC hosts these popular Salons just before the opening of each production. Chapter Two performances began on December 1 and run through December 18.
Chapter Two is generally considered a turning point in Simon’s writing, where he shifted from pure comedic material to a more serious genre, drawing on aspects of his own life. The play is directed by Andrew Barnicle, who previously directed the ETC hit, Fallen Angels, and features Todd Weeks, who recently starred in HBO’s All the Way.
Donor support is critical not only for ETC’s productions, but also for its community outreach. ETC staff regularly visits schools, universities, theater clubs and retirement communities to discuss themes found in upcoming productions. For those who want a more immersive theatre experience, the run of each production includes two pre-show talks and one post-performance discussion. ETC offers $10 student matinees which typically include a post-performance talk back. It also offers student group pricing and $20 tickets to those under 30.
ETC is Santa Barbara’s only professional theatre company. Upcoming plays are George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, Tennessee Williams’ Baby Doll, and Allan Knee’s Syncopation.
For more information about Ensemble Theatre Company, go to etcsb.org.
Send event invites to Gail at society@independent.com
