Why the partnership between NC Stage and Montford Park?
NC Stage has been doing Bard-a-thon for 6 years now. This year we decided to team up with Montford Park because 1. They are another outstanding arts organization in Asheville that depends on the support of generous individual donors. 2. They love Shakespeare. Seriously.
Everything we raise for Bard-a-thon will be split equally between the organizations and will help fund their missions and artistic goals in the coming season.
What is a fundraiser?
A fundraiser is an opportunity for organizations (in this case two of Asheville’s very best) to raise money to support their mission and operations. This fundraiser works because all of our participants find sponsors to help them raise money. We even give out prizes to the folks who help us raise the most. We count on the support of sponsors, donors, and especially YOU the participants to make this fundraiser a success. So, thank you for being so dedicated to helping- you are awesome.
Do I have to read ALL 24 hours?!?
No. Each time slot is 3 hours. You can sign up for just one and read for 3 hours or you can try to participate for the full 24 hours! Totally up to you.
Why do I have to raise $100 in order to choose my roles?
We realize that some of you are really excited to read a particular role- and that’s great! In the spirit of fairness, we put this requirement in for every single participant. That way the person who raises the most money is rewarded with first dibs. If you don’t raise $100.00 by the April 18th role choosing do not panic. We are reading 12 plays (or more!) over the course of 24-hours. There are plenty of great roles to be had- Everyone who signs up to participate in Bard-a-thon will be able to read at least one role.
Do I have to raise $100 for every role I want to read?
No. Every person who raises $100 or more by the deadline of April 18th at noon will be eligible to chose as many roles as they like in the Bardathon. Whoever has raised the most money will get to choose first, whoever raises the 2nd most goes second, and so on. When we get to the bottom of the list, the person who raised the most gets to choose again and another round of choosing begins. Think of it like you’re an NBA team owner in the draft and you’re choosing players. Except you’re not. And you’re drafting Macbeth.
How do I raise money for the Bardathon?
Send your sponsors to this link: (https://northcarolinastagecompany.thundertix.com/orders/new?performance_id=1237279)
All sponsor donations will need to be made online using the above link or at the NC Stage Box Office located at 15 Stage Lane.
My Grandma wrote me a check. How do I get it to you in time to choose my role?
Grandmas are the best. If you collect cash or checks from your sponsors- you must get them to the NC Stage Box office by the April 18th at noon when the plays will be announced. This only applies if you want to choose your role ahead of the event.
What the hell is the Bardathon again???
It is perfect for you. Register now. (828) 239-0263. Ask for Kelly.
Can I get a group of people to participate?
Yes. Tell your friends about Bard-a-thon and register together if you want. You can all sign up for the same time slot and read together.
How old do I have to be?
There is no age restriction on Bard-a-thon. You do need to be able to read.
Do I have to be a professional actor?
No. In fact, many of our participants are not professionals. Here is our list of priorities for this event: 1. Raise money for two great organizations. 2. Have a really good time with all of our participants. 3. Somewhat coherently make it through some of Shakespeare’s best plays until it is time to celebrate his birthday on Saturday night at which point we will all party together.
Why should I help these theatres raise money?
Short Answer: Really? C’mon now.
Longer Version: Montford Park Players and NC Stage are both excellent arts organizations with an established tenure in Asheville. These organizations help stimulate the local economy (what’s the actual number here Charlie?) while providing entertainment and educational programs in WNC. Montford Park Players is planning to use some of these funds in their capital campaign to expand their facilities at Hazel Robinson Amphitheater.