Be a Big Top Stakeholder !
It takes hundreds of tent stakes and thousands of stakeholders to keep the tent in the air each year . Because ticket sales cover just over half of what it takes to present our fine schedule of programs , Big Top needs to raise nearly half of its revenues from other sources . Your annual generosity in
contributing to our fundraising campaign is the only way the shows can continue .
What is Big Top Chautauqua and what do they do ? We present educational and entertaining performances and events . Some of our shows are original productions that highlight the history of the region , the culture of the area , and the environment . Others are touring artists of various genres for a broad spectrum of audiences . We also tour our shows to schools and performance centers throughout the upper Midwest , and broadcast our summer shows on Wisconsin Public Radio and other community stations in 10 states .
Why is Big Top Chautauqua important ? We provide arts , culture and educational programs to residents of and visitors to the Northwoods of Wisconsin . We enrich the lives of those who live here . We provide a major economic driver specifically for the businesses here and for the tourism industry in general . We provide opportunities for young people and students in a relatively depressed , rural area to have access to arts and education programs . We supplement the teaching curriculum of area schools and provide an innovative and fun way to learn the facts of history through song . We bring this arts & culture into the homes of Wisconsinites through the broadcast of Tent Show Radio – and aid in drawing people to the state and region through the show .
The Magic Our original shows remind us of our common humanity , and the importance of our shared history and the stewardship of our shared resources- a deep and meaningful , yet fun and entertaining experience . This is what we call “ The Magic ” of Big Top Chautauqua .
ONE-OF-A-KIND Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua is the only continually-operating , all-canvas , dramatic end tent theatre in the country . The canvas is real cloth that breathes and enhances the acoustics of the show .
A GATHERING PLACE Big Top provides a “ gathering place ,” an oasis for everyone to come together , under canvas , in the beauty of northern WI , to unify and remember the feeling of peaceful communion with their neighbors , friends and strangers in a common experience . Again – The Magic !
How much support does the Big Top need ? In 2012 we need to raise $ 350,000 in donations , grants , sponsorships and special events to cover our operating expenses . This figure represents just 26 % of our total operating budget . We need gifts of all sizes from $ 20 to $ 20,000 . Larger gifts and bequests will help us build a stable future . Everyone can give that yearly vote of support by being one of our annual donors . Your participation says :
Big Top makes a positive difference in my life !
Giving to Big Top
Big Top is a “ sound investment ”. Our Board of Directors ensures that Big Top is operated as a fiscally responsible business and is a good steward of your financial contributions . The organization undergoes an annual audit by the firm of Maitland Singler & Van Vlack SC to ensure that we conduct our operations in accordance with the auditing standards of generally accepted practices of the US . We are a federally-recognized 501 ( c )( 3 ) organization in good standing which means that your contributions to Big Top are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law .
Yes ! Big Top Makes a Positive Difference in My Life ! Send your contribution to BTC , PO Box 455 , Washburn , WI 54891 Call to pledge or charge your gift : 715-373-5520 Give online with Paypal at www . bigtop . org / supporters /
For more information on giving to the Big Top , phone Development Manager Elizabeth Ellis at 715-373-5520 or Executive Director Terry Meyer Matier at 715-373-0687 .
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Thank You for being a Big Top stakeholder !