The Friends of The Audi: Thank You for Your Help

By Cindy Flanagan and Joye Olson

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for The Friends of The Audi to give thanks for the 25th Annual Pitch In.

Over four days, 88 volunteers ages 11 to 85 from 75 local families worked for 417 hours, carefully cleaning and shining all the theatre and backstage areas, painting walls and floors, landscaping, and preparing the fall season’s promotional mailing.

Projects included completion of the LED lighting installation, steam-cleaning all carpets, and preparation for the Friends’ next big project: renovation of the seats. Pro bono gifts to the Pitch In included All-Brite’s annual steam-cleaning of the Reception Lobby and Panera Bread’s donation for the volunteers’ meals. The gleaming house is the perfect setting for the Audi’s new historical display including the building’s 1902 plans,1929 major renovations, and many original works of art -- all gifts to the city.

The Pitch In has double value, for the volunteer maintenance labor and the Friends’ purchases totalled $10,078.93, helping to keep the Auditorium’s performances affordable and accessible to all.

Over 25 years, Pitch In workers have provided over $200,000 in maintenance labor to the city-owned theatre. We are thankful as well to Superintendent Jay Burgess and the staff of the Public Properties Division, especially for the expert exterior painting, repair of the stage floor, and provision of guidance and supplies.

The stage is set for everyone to enjoy the exciting schedule of 10 shows starting with the Community Players’ “Sweeney Todd” on Nov. 20 and running through Dec. 20 when the Friends of The Audi’s Holiday Open House includes a true Pot Luck Supper with special entertainment by the Rockin’ Daddios.

Thank you, Concord, on Thanksgiving and every day.

The Friends of The Audi, Cindy Flanagan, President, Joye Olson, Pitch In Crew Chief