Theater professionals—actors, designers, directors, stage managers, box-office staff, choreographers, administrators, technicians, and more—experience unforeseen personal emergencies like everyone else.

But unlike many others, professionals in the arts rarely earn wages that are commensurate with their contribution to the vitality and richness of our community. Often, they don't have access to health insurance. In 2012, to help colleagues in need, we created the Taking Care Fund, an initiative that assists area theater professionals in times of unforeseen financial hardship. Support is provided in the form of an outright gift that never needs to be repaid.

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak and the loss of work, theatreWashington announced an expansion of the Taking Care Fund. With the help of funders and supporters, theatreWashington is committing at least $115,000 to the Taking Care Fund—COVID-19 Emergency Relief. We are asking our community to raise $115,000 in public matching funds. Every dollar raised through this fundraiser will be allocated to direct relief to theater professionals in need at this time.

To donate to the Fund, click here.

theatreWashington welcomes questions on the Taking Care Fund and its application process. Contact Theatre Services Manager, Michael Kyrioglou, email mkyrioglou@theatrewashington.org or call us at (202) 337-4572.