[NEohioPAL]Theater For Political Action

[Kevin Cronin]

List: I'd like to ask list members to join other performers in an act of 
theater for political action, by joining statewide theater for progressive 
reform.  I am working with groups to organize performances, similar to the 
worldwide readings of Lysistrata that preceded the war in Iraq. We would 
raise money for "Bring Ohio Back" (BOB), the only 527 organization in Ohio 
dedicated to enacting progressive reform in Ohio (BOB is the group that 
brought in Martin Sheen, Susan Serandon and Juliana Margulies for a 
Cleveland fundraiser). While the structure and date is still being 
developed, I would like to hear from interested artists and performers and 
provide some preliminary thoughts:

There were 13 (at least) Lysistrata productions in Ohio, including one in 
all major cities and college towns.  the intent is to choose an arbitrary 
date (early October) to have an event in every city (and others areas could 
join as well).  Local artists, in any arts media (theater, singing, dance, 
even painters could join and donate/sell their paintings), could 
participate.

In lieu of gate, donations are solicited and given to BOB.  We would comply 
with all record-keeping, obviously. As I understand them, 527s have few 
restrictions (record all donations, no cash above $50, no corporate 
donations, no netting of event expenses against event revenue, as well as 
some others).  I will send along specific restrictions, so everyone is very 
clean.

We are sounding out a variety of sites.

I think this would work -- the event would attract artists, and attendees, 
with political goals, as well as those without political goals.  I'm sure 
some people would simply be attracted to the idea of hearing members of the 
orchestra Red, or seeing dancers or hearing a few Cleveland Orchestra 
performers.  Others would be drawn to the political goals.  Both groups can 
contribute to the cause. There is no target goal, but there is an awful lot 
of talent and pent-up desire for reform on this list.

Thanks for your thoughts. All the best....

Kevin Cronin
Cleveland, Ohio
c: 216.374.7578
http://kevin_cronin_assoc.tripod.com

Bodwin Theatre Company
http://bodwin_theatre.tripod.com

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