Pasadena Playhouse ends bankruptcy, still needs millions to recover

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

The last time the Pasadena Playhouse shut down, in 1969, it stayed dark for 17 years.

This time it could be less than nine months. The Playhouse announced Thursday that it has emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy free of debt, has enlisted a new $1-million donor and expects to have a play on the boards by October.

It will be far from the $8 million a year operation it was as recently as 2008. After that, a combination of left-over debt and shrinking donations amid a crumbling economy led to its closing in February and the cancellation of the rest of 2010 season.

The future depends on whether the remaining organization -- an artistic director, executive director, two support staffers and a board of directors -- can reel in the millions needed to re-establish the Playhouse as a major regional company. For now, it will proceed one show at a time.

‘I have a sadness for the folks that had to take the hit because of the bankruptcy filing,’ said Stephen Eich, executive director. ‘There really wasn’t an alternative if there was going to be a Pasadena Playhouse.’

For the full story, click here.

-- Mike Boehm

Recent and Related

Pasadena Playhouse will close Feb. 7

Pasadena Playhouse files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy