Tel: 612-338-2674
Letter from The President
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going” could have been The Cedar’s motto in 2008 and 2009. Major shifts in the music industry, the funding community, and the economy have made tough times the order-of-the-day. Although these circumstances have presented a number of challenges, I am proud to say that The Cedar’s patrons, volunteers, staff, and board have risen to the occasion.
The Cedar has emerged as a destination in the “flight to quality” trend that has become popular in this recession. As individuals and families are forced to tighten their purse strings, we are being pickier about how we spend our discretionary dollars. The quality of The Cedar’s work as well as the affordability of our ticket price has made us a venue of choice for many who are seeking the most favorable cost-benefit in entertainment. This resonates with a focused mission, striving to uphold and improve our already stellar reputation, and our ability to execute strategic priorities, including:
• continued commitment to excellence in local, regional, and international performing arts realized with more shows and larger audiences.
• year-over-year growth of our annual fund – more important now than ever before given unfavorable trends in foundation support – demonstrating that the community values and supports The Cedar’s work.
• successful outreach to targeted audiences, including youth, to ensure that our programs are accessible and serving community members who can benefit most.
The Cedar has emerged as an institutional leader in our local, regional, and global arts community. But continued success requires attention to day-to-day activities as well as strategic goals. This is ensured by an efficient operational model as well as by financial support in the form of donations and ticket purchases from audience members like you.
Now is the time to recommit to what you value today and in the future. We’re confident that staying focused on our mission and pursuing our vision for continued success will enable The Cedar to thrive. This is a call to our entire community to invest in something that has and will continue to increase the quality of life in our Twin Cities. Click here to donate today.
-Hugh Pruitt, Cedar Board President
