Forget the lottery: Tampa Theatre hit the jackpot this month when an anonymous donor had a $100,000 check delivered to the historic theatre.
The check came from an investment account and arrived with no identifying details. The donor specified the theatre should use the money to restore the historic building. And with no way to discover the identity of the mystery benefactor, the Theatre hopes that a very public “thank you” will reach his or her ears.
“We have received generous donations in the past from friends of the Theatre who wish not to be recognized publicly,” said JL Wagner, Tampa Theatre’s Director of Development. “But this is the largest anonymous gift. It was a surprise when the check arrived, and while we respect the donor’s wish not to reveal themselves to us, we want to make sure they know just how appreciative we are. A gift like this encourages those who work so passionately on the Theatre’s behalf, and we hope it inspires others who may want to support this beloved landmark. ”
The anonymous donor made his or her wishes crystal clear the $100,000 get used only for building restoration.
At the ripe old age of 89, Tampa Theatre officials say they won't have any trouble granting that wish. The non-profit tasked with running Tampa Theatre installed a digital projection and sound system in 2013, and since than has focused on decaying infrastructure.
Last year the Tampa Theatre Foundation, the non-profit that runs the city-owned theater, replaced the original windows on the upper floors facing Florida Avenue. This year the group will tackle house lighting and power systems.
The Foundation classifies each project as Level One (life and safety/structural integrity), Level Two (program enhancement), Level Three (patron comfort), or Level Four (building aesthetics)," said Tampa Theatre President & CEO, John Bell.
“We often talk about how it is through the generosity of our community that Tampa Theatre is able to open its doors every day,” Bell said. “Gifts like this remind us just how beloved this building is, and humble those of us entrusted with its care. We cannot thank you enough – whoever you are.”
This article appears in Jan 14-20, 2016.