Save Historic Theatre 80 St. Marks

UPDATE on the situation of Theatre 80, 6-05-23:

Hello Friends of Theatre 80 St. Marks,

Despite our efforts to raise the money in time to save the historic building that houses Theatre 80 and William Barnacle Tavern, it was sold at auction in approximately 13 minutes to a bidder for only $8.7 million. We are still working to fulfill the mission of the nonprofit Historic 80 Saint Marks Inc: to preserve and protect the building's history and culture, while providing a theater for diverse excellent programming.

If you are able, please give generously to be a part of this community effort.

We are still working with New York City government to find a solution to keep Theatre 80 alive and preserve the historic building.

To give large donation amounts of $1000+, please contact us directly at Historic80SaintMarksPP at gmail dot com or visit us at www.historic80stmarks.com for more information.

We appreciate your support and participation in saving this important part of New York City's community and cultural landscape.

Please SHARE this fundraiser with neighbors who are unaware of what is happening and anyone you feel will want to help.

This media clip covers the eviction and latest situation of owners Lorcan and Genie Otway:

https://youtu.be/ght_3OWJZnE

Our deepest thanks and appreciation!

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4/14/23

Hello Friends of Theatre 80 St. Marks!

As many are aware, we are in a race against time to save Historic 80 St. Marks Place, the home of Theatre 80, William Barnacle Tavern and The Museum of the American Gangster.

Just a few days after this news coverage of supporters holding a rally at City Hall, owners Lorcan and Genie Otway were evicted from the building.

https://pix11.com/news/local-news/manhattan/legendary-east-village-theater-facing-final-curtain-if-debt-not-paid/

We are not giving up, but we've only got ONE shot. With your help, we are seeking to raise $13.75 million by May 2, 2023 in order to prepare for saving the building before the AUCTION on May 9, 2023.

Two generous and caring philanthropists have conditionally pledged $3M and $2M for a total of $5M towards our goal. The conditions are that we become a nonprofit, and that we garner enough support to raise the balance of the funds.

As per the attached recent determination letter from the IRS, Historic 80 Saint Marks Inc is now exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and is classified as a public charity, so all donations are deductible to the extent permitted by law!

We are seeking supporters/donors/lenders/investors with the vision and commitment to support and preserve critical venues in our city's history, recognizing the cultural importance of small theatre venues in providing attainable space for creative growth for artists and creators of all ages.

No donation is too small. Every little bit helps.

Our plans IF (no, WHEN!) we open back up include continuing the diverse creative programming for the stage we have always presented and supported, as well as exciting expansions including programming for creative programs with local community partners for children's and teens programs, to be announced.

Feel free to reach out to us with your ideas and creative projects. This is your neighborhood, and your community, and as always, The Otways and Theatre 80 and William Barnacle Tavern have existed to serve the community with a safe place for artists, creators, lovers of the arts and all community members to meet and share ideas, problem solve, learn and grow.

The new nonprofit, Historic 80 St. Marks Place Inc.'s mission is to preserve and protect the building's history and culture, while providing creative space for artists and creators, from seasoned pros to students starting on their creative journey.

We appreciate your support and participation in saving this important part of New York City's community and cultural landscape.

Please SHARE this fundraiser with neighbors who are unaware of what is happening and anyone you feel will want to help! There are approximately 8.4M people in New York City. If just 10% of those might donate $12 we would reach our goal.

Each and every person who donates will be acknowledged. If (no, WHEN!) the building is saved, we will design a permanent display containing the names of everyone who supported this effort.

We thank YOU with the deepest appreciation.

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Just a few memories...(more to come!)