I believe in miracles. That is an odd statement in our modern times. I can offer zero evidence to support the claim, and honestly, it really comes down to how you define the word – miracle. I would argue that every theatre production is a bit of a miracle. When you consider everything involved and that the process is repeated over and over again, it is amazing that it all works. Geoffrey Rush’s character in Shakespeare in Love is the ultimate flag bearer for my definition of miracle as he states “it’s a mystery” when asked how a show comes together in the midst of seeming peril.
Onion Man Productions now finds itself opening a new theatre space in Atlanta. To account for every twist and turn in the road that has brought Onion Man to this point would take too long for me to narrate. But, from my point of view as Creator and Artistic Director for Onion Man, “miracle” is the only word that fits. A journey that started in Atlanta, and has made stops in Jacksonville, Florida up to Chicago for five years, and now back home to Georgia, where we’ve been producing theatre since 2009. And that amazing process continues in our new space.
On Saturday, March 19th at 7 pm, Onion Man will host an Open House and Fundraiser at our new space – 5522 New Peachtree Rd. #111 Chamblee, Georgia 30341. Although we came into this process in a strong financial position, blessed by a couple of donations, the various requirements of building codes and the need to get architectural drawings, has eaten up a large part of our dollars. We are still in good shape as we begin construction in the space, but things have gotten a lot tighter. The landlord still wants his monthly rent as we work to obtain our “certificate of occupancy.” Although we have funds for construction set aside, there are always surprises. On top of that, we still have to buy lighting equipment and reupholster chairs. So, I am asking for your help. We need to raise $15,000.00 by May 31st. So far we have raised over $1,000, but we need your help to reach our goal!
By donating to Onion Man you will be:
- Helping us complete the construction process and to purchase quality lighting fixtures.
- Creating a theatre space focused on new work, although that is not all we will create.
- Building a theatre space that will benefit many. Our goal is to make the space available to small theatre companies that need an affordable place to produce shows. But, to do that we need to maintain cash reserves to subsidize this effort.
- Supporting and cultivating a new theatre space in Atlanta. The way building codes and zoning works, a space needs to be permitted for a certain use. Now that Onion Man has put in the effort to create this space, it will be another theatre space available in Atlanta even after Onion Man has moved on to a larger venue (our next goal).
- Establishing a home for theatre artists to learn and grow. Onion Man has always been and will continue to be a great place for artistic growth! It is what we do best. And along with producing our shows we will be offering acting and writing classes and workshops.
And you will be participating in the making of a miracle. In many ways, miracles do come easy; all it takes is the willingness to participate in one. So, please join me as I invite you into this miracle.
