Wants to clarify a point or two about the theatre

Dear Editor:

Without getting caught up in the pros and cons of the latest Gaffney City Council vote, I would like to clarify a point or two about our memorandum of understanding which we have discussed with the city over several years.

First, it was our understanding that the city would be using Hospitality Tax funds to attract tourism, which is the only way the funds can legally be used. And as part of the overall plan, a multicultural arts center could be a vital cog in the development of that plan.

To that end, the Gaffney Little Theatre board of directors agreed, after much discussion as to the wisdom of the move, to contribute to the city the two $392,000 buildings on East Frederick Street deeded to the theatre by the Hinton family. Also, the theatre would then become ONE of the tenants of the center. Following completion of the building, which would include a theatre and children's theatre, the two remaining properties of the theatre (valued at more than $150,000) would be given to the city.

This would leave the theatre without valuable storage, set construction and costume space. That was a problem for some of the board members. However, the group was acting in good faith because it was agreed that the center would be of value to Gaffney and the area and some sacrifices would have to be made.

It has been stated that funds running into the millions of dollars are being sought for The Gaffney Little Theatre. This is just not true. We want everyone to know that we were told the center was to be used for many things and by many citizens and groups. The two buildings are huge and the theatre would not need that much space ever. So, if it came to building only a theatre, then the two buildings could be used for storage, set construction, etc. and a new theatre built somewhere. The old theatre and adjacent lot could be sold and applied to funds raised to build a free-standing theatre. This was an original plan.

We certainly believe in the concept of the Arts Center and we support it. However, the idea that all this money is for The Gaffney Little Theatre is false. The Gaffney City Council has every right to take whatever action it sees fit. We have no opinions otherwise and take no exceptions to their decisions.

We just want everyone to know that the theatre board felt it was acting in the best interest of everyone. If the funds are not available, they are not available. If the center is not needed, it shouldn't be part of the problem.

I can only say that the theatre will continue to offer the best entertainment for our citizens, the best training for our youngsters and programs to promote the arts as we continue into our 40th year of operation, wherever we are located in Cherokee County.
Phil Gibbons
President
Gaffney Little Theatre
Board of Directors