“But if you think it, want it, dream it, then it’s real.”  The Narrator sings these words in the Prologue of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.  Having just produced this show in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Barrow-Civic Theatre, the lyrics continue to resound through my mind.  Not only have I taken special notice that Webber uses these empowering, thought-provoking words at the very beginning of his show to capture us, I also value the metaphoric parallel between Joseph’s dreaming and commitment to make those dreams come true and Franklin Civic Operetta Association’s dreams of owning a theatre and their commitment to make that happen.  Three decades ago, on August 14, 1993, dreams really did become a reality for F.C.O.A. when the Barrow-Civic Theatre opened its doors.  Our predecessors “thought it, wanted it, dreamt it, and made it real!”  We are now living their legacy.

During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, we have taken a detailed look at our building and have been planning for repairs and maintenance to ensure a solid and healthy future for The Barrow.  One of the most pressing needs was the replacement of the main stage floor.  30 years of paint layers, footsteps and dancing, set and prop movement, and general “wear and tear” meant our old floor was uneven, no longer safe for dancers, and the escape doors were no longer functional.  We borrowed the money and replaced the stage floor at the beginning of the year in an effort to not interrupt our programming schedule.  The next project on our list is to complete improvements and repairs to our stage rigging (ropes, pulleys, battens, safety cables, etc.) and to replace the stage curtains.  Many of our aging curtains are torn and held together with tape, as the material is disintegrating and will not hold stitches.  We have had the curtains tested and many of them are no longer flame retardant.  We are currently collecting proposals and will soon need to make the decision to move forward with these projects.

Here is how you can help the Barrow-Civic Theatre continue for much longer than the next 30 years!  I invite you to participate in our “Replace the Stage” fundraising campaign.  The total combined cost for these three projects will exceed $90,000, so any support you can provide will be greatly appreciated!  All contributors to the campaign between now and September 28 will be recognized during our Applefest show, School of Rock.  Anyone contributing $500 or more by the campaign deadline of October 13 will be listed on a plaque that will hang permanently in the main lobby.  Completing these projects are essential for the future productions at our theatre, and I cannot thank you enough for your support!

We will continue to dream and work to make those dreams come true.  Thank you for believing in our continued success, and investing in the legacy of the brave members of Franklin Civic Operetta Association that began so many years ago.

With great appreciation,

Zachary Covington 

Executive Director

Monetary Donations

Monetary donations of any amount may be one-time or recurring. Checks may be made payable to Barrow-Civic Theatre.

If making a donation to the “Replace the Stage” Campaign online, please indicate that in the box that is labeled personal note to be included with donation.

The Barrow-Civic Theatre is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your gift is tax-deductible.