(Re)Tired Magical Black Man – Support Request

I’ve received financial support for the creation of (Re)Tired Magical Black Man, but theatre production costs are a separate beast. Even cutting everything back to the barest of bones (no projection for this production, boo!), requires a level of funding that is above my pay grade.

Providing accessibility in theatre venues is financially inaccessible, especially for independent producers. I missed the submission windows for government (accessibility) grants, and the awards and grants (that I submitted) aren’t announced yet, so I’m seeking community assistance.

Accessibility is important to me, as a consumer and as a producer. I want ASL interpretation for the full run of (Re)Tired Magical Black Man.

Other production costs include: a videographer to record one of the shows; a few set pieces and props; my costume and some makeup; and postcards for promotions.

One-third of donations will be allocated to buy tickets for two Ottawa organizations: Ottawa Black Diaspora Coalition and Kindspace. Both organizations have done a lot for marginalized citizens, and I became aware of their advocacy during the pandemic and the convoy. Achieving the full goal ($504) will allow me to give three tickets to each organization for each of the six shows ($14*3*2*6)

Stretch goals: If I achieve the full fundraiser goal, through a mix of donations and receiving additional awards or sponsorship, then I will allocate additional money to:

• Accessibility: I would like Described Audio Description for the full Festival run of the show, but I haven’t found an Ottawa vendor yet (pricing to be confirmed)
• More tickets: up to ten tickets for each organization for each of the six shows (an additional $1,176 – $14*10*2*6)
• Merch: offering a variety of button designs. Button donations will be sent to Odawa Native Friendship Centre (pricing to be confirmed)

Outside the scope of this fundraiser, I’ve already started working on my digital / virtual show program. I will create two accessibility documents: a Transcript for d/Deaf and Hard of Hearing patrons and an Audio Described Pre-Show Note. The Ottawa Fringe box office will centrally distribute these documents.

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