What does “Pay-What-You-Can” really mean for our tickets?
October 11, 2023
The days are growing shorter, and the sound of laughter intermingled with smoke from roaring bonfires fills the crisp night air. Fall has returned in full radiance as the leaves’ majestic colors burst forth in a final blaze of glory. As we enter this new season (both in weather and performances), we wanted to take a moment to remind you of our Pay-What-You-Can ticketing model (for all subscriptions and single ticket sales), and help clarify what that actually means.
As we rebuild from the chaotic events of the last few years, we see now, more than ever, the need to remove barriers to the performing arts. Since reopening in the fall of 2021, we have offered all of our tickets as Pay-What-You-Can. As of last season, Acacia is thrilled to announce that we are the first theater company in Milwaukee to move to a completely Pay-What-You-Can model for all ticket sales!
What Does Pay-What-You-Can Mean?
Just what it says. We don’t decide what our tickets cost; you do. You give us the amount of money you think is fair (either to you or to us), and we let you in. Simple, right?
“What Should I Pay?”
Well, whatever you can. But if you need guidelines, here’s what we ask you to consider:
“What Am I Accustomed To Paying?”
Most small Milwaukee-area companies charge between $15 and $30 a ticket. We’d appreciate if you can land in that range, with a suggested price of $20 per ticket. If you typically get senior or student discounts, feel free to adjust accordingly.
“What Am I Willing To Pay?”
We understand that we are small, non-profit theatre company. If you want to take us out for a test drive, pay a modest amount for your ticket — you can always pay extra as you leave!
“What Am I Able To Pay?”
Maybe you’re a student on a tight budget, or a senior on a fixed income. Maybe you have a large family, or you’re going through some tough times. We get it. Arts and culture are frequently the first items in the budget to be cut when facing tough economic choices, especially when tickets to larger productions can cost over $100. We want to make it possible for you to see live theatre regardless of your situation. If you have $20, that’s great, but if you have $5, that’s fine too; we will never turn you away.
“What Is The Difference Between A Ticket Purchase And A Donation?”
A ticket purchase includes any amount paid for tickets that is less than or equal to our suggested ticket price of $20. Anything over that amount will qualify as a donation. In other words, a patron cannot give us $20, say that they want to pay $5 for their ticket, and then indicate that they want the other $15 to be a donation. The entire $20 suggested ticket price must be met before a payment can be counted towards a donation (pursuant to I.R.S. code).
Please Bear In Mind…
Although we try to keep our production costs as low as possible, between space rental, performance royalties, cast and crew stipends, prop/costume/set expenses, publicity material, etc., even small-scale theatre is an expensive venture. While we seek individual donations, grant support and corporate sponsorship to help underwrite our shows, we also ask that you do your part through your ticket purchase, to the extent of your ability.
SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS
First choice of seats each year (your current seats, or new ones).
Subscription purchases and seat renewal give you the opportunity to access ticket sales before they are open to the public every season.
Exchange your tickets without a fee (non-subscribers will be charged a $3 per ticket fee in order to exchange tickets to another performance).
HOW DO I SUBSCRIBE?
ONLINE: You can subscribe or renew electronically by clicking here. Patrons who subscribe electronically will be sent the option to pick their seats and performances from their computer or electronic device.
BY MAIL: If you would like to renew your subscription via mail, or if you would like to become a new subscriber, contact our office by phone (414-517-1771) or email (office@acaciatheatre.com), and we can mail you a brochure to fill out and mail back to the office along with your payment. You will be contacted to confirm your preferred seats as well as show dates and times. Your season tickets can then be mailed to you, or held at the Will Call table.
BY PHONE: You may also call our office at 414-744-5995, and our Administrator will be happy to assist you in getting the best seats available!
OTHER INFORMATION
Suitability For Children: Some Acacia shows may contain mature subject matter. Parents are encouraged to call the Acacia office for information on show themes before bringing children. Unless specified, our plays are not appropriate for children under five.
Weather Policy: Acacia Theatre Company does not cancel or reschedule performances due to inclement weather, nor can we offer refunds.
Wheelchair Seating: Wheelchair seating is available. Please inform us if you have special needs when ordering your tickets.
WHY SUPPORT ACACIA?
Acacia was conceived as an oasis, a place to refresh the spirit and renew the mind through the art of theater. The company is solely sustained by the support of patrons such as yourself. If Acacia’s existence is important to you, please consider giving a donation. For more ways to support Acacia, call 414-744-5995 or click here.
PERFORMANCES
All performances are being held at:
The Norvell Commons at St. Christopher’s Church
7845 North River Road
Milwaukee, WI 53217