Sanford authorizes funds for struggling theater

Sanford, N.C. — The Sanford City Council on Wednesday unanimously approved a funding advance for Temple Theatre, City Manager Hal Hegwer said.

The city approved $20,000, the theater's request for the 2009-10 budget year. "They will not receive further funding next year from July 1, 2009, through July 1, 2010," Hegwer added.

The theater will produce fewer shows in 2009-10 and focus on fundraising, Temple Artistic Director Peggy Taphorn said. She said the theater has five fundraisers planned for the remaining months of the 2009 fiscal year.

The theater is using a combination of cost-cutting and fundraising to mitigate an anticipated budget shortfall.