Local singers, performers live stream request sessions to raise money for theatre

Singers and performers from a local theatre have taken their performances to the virtual world -- belting out songs and requests on social media live streams.

They hope to bring a little light, fun and inspiration to people stuck at home.

While people are turning to the arts for comfort and entertainment during this time--enjoying TV, movies and music while stuck at home in quarantine--nobody is buying tickets to theatres and shows. The North Raleigh Arts & Creative Theatre wants to make sure that when the pandemic is over, the shows will be able to resume.

It’s unclear when theater seats will be filled again, or actors will take the stage. Their small community theatre in North Raleigh has 97 seats. Rent is high in their commercial location -- so while the shows don't go on, the bills still do.

Their shows, a major revenue stream, have been canceled for the foreseeable future.

Timothy Locklear, Managing Artistic Director at NRACT, said, "If we stay closed 4-6 months, we could be in trouble. That's the reality of what could happen here if we don't get our doors back open."

Their summer camps, another major revenue stream, may also be in jeopardy.

"My biggest fear is we don't get to do our summer camp program. The summer camp program brings in a huge revenue for the theatre," said Locklear.

Money aside, Locklear is also concerned for the students who regularly attend camp each year losing something that they look forward to.

Locklear said that they can survive a couple of months closed but not much longer.