David vs. Goliath

It was with a great deal of interest and not a little dismay I read the article in today’s Calendar on fund-raising (“The Delicate Dance,” July 13).

What is going to happen to the smaller institutions when the big institutions are planning a frontal attack on all the money in the county? With OCPAC and SCR looking to raise millions of dollars, what is the incentive for corporate sponsorship of growing organizations?

We struggle for every dollar we raise; we write 10 grants for every one we receive; we use every available dollar to mount productions. We have grand plans; we have a full, vibrant vision; we have a committed and growing board; we have a strongly committed talent pool, and patrons that are unwavering in their support.

But to continue to grow, we also need access to the funds in the county. When I read of OCPAC’s development staff, with an annual budget they won’t even reveal, I question the priorities of the arts in the county.

There must be a place in the arts community for growing organizations, but, we must be allowed to grow. With all the money being funneled into the megalith in Costa Mesa, how do we survive and grow?

The county now has two types of arts organizations: the 10 large ones with budgets over $1 million, and the small ones with budgets less than $100,000. Where are the midsize organizations in Orange County? How can there be the growth and maturity of the arts if there is such a disparate dispersal of funds?

PATRICIA L. TERRY

Artistic Director

Alternative Repertory Theatre

Santa Ana