| Community Rallies Again to Save Iconic West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre | |
| Posted by: Official_Press_Release 04:14 pm EDT 07/23/24 | |
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| Community Rallies Again to Save Iconic West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre New York, NY – The West Bank Cafe/Laurie Beechman Theatre, cherished landmarks in New York City's theater district, is once again facing closure in part due to being denied crucial financial support from the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) and the Shuttered Venue Operating Grant (SVOG). Without immediate community intervention, these iconic venues will be forced to close their doors this August. Despite a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2020, including a star-studded Christmas Day Telethon that helped the restaurant stay afloat, the denied government support given to other restaurants has once again put the venue in turmoil, even as business thrived. The same dedicated team—Tom D'Angora, Michael D'Angora, Tim Guinee, and Joe Iconis—that saved the Cafe during the pandemic are rallying support once more to ensure their survival and future success. In 2020, when the pandemic threatened to shutter the Cafe and Theatre, the community came together, raising over $350,000 through a GoFundMe campaign and a star-studded Christmas Day streaming telethon. This event featured Broadway and cabaret performers, with appearances by major celebrities such as Sean Penn, Pete Townshend, Jinx Monsoon, Debra Messing, Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, Andre De Shields, John Gallagher Jr, Megan Hilty, Kerry Butler, Martha Plimpton, Chip Zien, Betty Buckley, Melissa Rivers, and many more. These efforts helped the West Bank Cafe survive the pandemic and the lean years that followed. Despite these heroic efforts, and business bouncing back post-pandemic, the lack of financial support from the RRF and SVOG has made it impossible for the Cafe and Theatre to thrive. To ensure the future of the beloved venue, the team is launching a new GoFundMe to kick off their effort and are in the midst of planning a star-studded gala event to assist with fundraising. As the West Bank Cafe approaches its 50th anniversary, the call to action is clear: the community wants the West Bank Café and the community must come together to save this invaluable cultural institution. The Laurie Beechman Theatre is an irreplaceable part of the New York City performing arts scene, past and present. In addition to hosting legends like Joan Rivers and Pete Townshend, the Beechman functioned as a developmental incubator for artists such as Warren Leight, Lewis Black, Rusty Magee, Karen Finley, and so many more. The original cast of Sunday in the Park With George rehearsed there and Aaron Sorkin's first plays were performed there. Many of our most beloved theater artists have interacted with the room in one way or another. The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre have been serving the community for decades, offering a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional experiences. From hosting milestone celebrations to providing a trusted space for artists to showcase their talents, these venues are irreplaceable parts of New York City's cultural landscape. To support the West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre, please visit our GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/0bce7c51. Together, we can ensure that these iconic venues continue to serve the community for years to come. About The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre: Located in the heart of New York City's theater district, The West Bank Cafe and Laurie Beechman Theatre have been integral to the community for 46 years. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional cuisine, the Cafe has been a favorite among locals, tourists, and the theater community. The Laurie Beechman Theatre has hosted performances by some of the industry's most celebrated artists, making it a cornerstone of New York's cultural scene. |
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| Link | GoFundMe link |
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