Clearwater's Ruth Eckerd Hall received a $250,000 gift on January 25, and it will be will be used towards the first phase of their expansion, which includes the reconfiguration of Ruth Eckerd Hall Drive and the entrance for parking and valet.
The gift was delivered by Tom James, Executive Chairman of Raymond James, in front of the Ruth Eckerd Hall Board of Directors, members and other guests in attendance at the Theatre’s annual dinner on January 25.
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“On behalf of Ruth Eckerd Hall, I am honored to accept this gift from Raymond James, and our good friend and partner, Tom James,” said Zev Buffman, Ruth Eckerd Hall President and CEO. “Their commitment to Ruth Eckerd Hall, the arts and arts education cannot be measured. We are thankful for their support of Ruth Eckerd Hall and our next phase of expanding the experience.”
In a release, the 2,180 capacity venue said that their central ticket office at Ruth Eckerd Hall will be named The Raymond James Central Ticket Office at Ruth Eckerd Hall.
“Raymond James has been a long-term supporter of Ruth Eckerd Hall because we believe entertainment, education in the arts and the indirect benefits of having an active performance center are essential to a great place to live and work,” said Tom James, Raymond James Executive Chairman. “Zev Buffman, the REH Board and staff have done an outstanding job of growing the quantity and quality of activities. I encourage other local businesses to contribute to the current capital campaign.”
Ruth Eckerd Hall's “Expanding the Experience” campaign began in 2013 with the renovation of the Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater. The Murray Theatre at Ruth Eckerd Hall was restored in 2015 and last year, the Margarete Heye Great Room was completely renovated, including a new commercial kitchen.
Have a look at a rendering below.
