Photo by Jessica Moskowitz
A fire destroyed several restaurants adjacent to Taproot Theatre early this morning. No one was injured, and while firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to the theatre, Taproot still sustained fairly severe smoke and water damage to the theater. This weekend’s performances of Enchanted April have been moved to Seattle Children’s Theatre. From their press release:
Taproot Theatre Company is moving its closing weekend performances of Enchanted April to Seattle Children’s Theatre due to fire at an adjacent building, which caused significant damage to Taproot Theatre. The fire early this morning has forced tonight’s performance to be canceled. Tomorrow’s shows (October 24) will take place at 2 and 8 p.m.
Thank you to all the theatres and arts organizations who have stepped up to offer support and alternative locations during this time. The Seattle theatre community has been incredibly generous.
Unfortunately Taproot will also have many difficulties beyond relocating their current show – there will undoubtedly be many repairs and costs in order to bring the theatre back into working condition. As such, TPS has proposed a “20/40″ plan. From Executive Director Karen Zeller Lane:
20/40 Campaign for Taproot. As Taproot’s street address is 204 N 85th, I would like to suggest a show of support by the arts community by way of donations in the amount of $20.40. If you are anything like myself, and I reckon you are, I often think that what I can give is so little. BUT if hundreds gave $20.40 each that can add up to a stinking lot fast. And, as our network of a caring arts community extends well beyond this region, as evidenced by a cross post by a friend at the Theatre Alliance of Greater Philadelphia, just think of the difference we truly ALL could make together. If you are able, please feel free to give more.
Taproot’s donate page can be found here.