The United Performing Arts Fund announced today it will provide a one-time $250,000 gift to the Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s ‘s building fund in response to The Rep’s critical need of $1.75 million to help fund repairs to its building, which is settling because of rotten wood pilings that are underneath its foundation.
There is no immediate danger to staff or patrons, but the slow settling of the building is a problem that needs to be resolved, according to The Rep.
“As a UPAF Cornerstone Member, The Rep is a vital asset to southeastern Wisconsin,” said Deanna Tillisch, president and chief executive officer of UPAF. “The organization consistently delivers exceptional theater performances that reach more than 200,000 patrons and generate $15 million of financial activity each year. Our board of directors and management team believe it is important for UPAF to support its Cornerstone Members when they are faced with unforeseen and extensive needs.”
Milwaukee Repertory Theater managing director Chad Bauman said, “The Rep is greatly appreciative to UPAF for helping us with a gift of $250,000 to assist with our building repairs. While this was an unexpected problem for The Rep, we are being very proactive in our approach to implement a permanent solution. We thank the United Performing Arts Fund for being one of the first donors to step forward and generously support us in this important effort.”
Dollars for The Rep’s capital needs will come from UPAF’s “Intangible Fund,” which was created in 2002 by the UPAF board. At the discretion of the UPAF Board, the Intangible Fund can provide distressed funding to a UPAF Cornerstone in an emergency situation.
