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Frequently Asked Questions about Taproot Theatre and the Greenwood Fire
What happened Friday, October 23?
Early Friday morning a three-alarm fire tragically destroyed the three restaurants and coffee shop east of Taproot Theatre. The businesses affected were Pho Tic Tac, Green Bean Coffeehouse, C.C. Teriyaki, and Szechuan Bistro. We are heartbroken to say that all of these businesses have suffered a total loss. Our theatre has sustained significant water and smoke damage. Taproot Theatre Company is brokenhearted to learn that the fire that devastated four of our neighboring businesses and damaged our theatre was reported to have been deliberately set. Taproot owns the building that housed these four businesses and we are still discerning what will happen to this space.
When we realized we would not be able to perform in our space for the closing weekend of Enchanted April we began the search for an alternative theatre in which to perform. Seattle Children’s Theatre made it possible for us to use the Charlotte Martin Theatre on Saturday. Our production team began retrieving and airing out costumes and devising a means to move some set pieces to Seattle Children’s. The cast and crew worked late into the night to re-work the show to accommodate the new space. Box office staff and volunteers called nearly 700 patrons to let them know about the venue change. Saturday’s performances were well-attended and received standing ovations.
How bad is the damage to the theatre and was anyone hurt?
The only injury that was reported was a fireman who hurt his ankle. We are so thankful that no one was seriously injured in the fire. The theatre has significant smoke and water damage. Crews have been inside the theatres since Saturday morning taking out the damaged carpet, walls, counters etc. As of Monday morning both lobbies were stripped down to wooden floors and studs in the walls. The costume shop, production offices and box office will be relocated while crew work quickly to get the theatre in working condition. Click here to see some pictures of Taproot.
What can I do to help?
We are very thankful for all of our friends who have expressed an interest in helping Taproot. However, we’re not sure what kind of help we will need. Please feel free to fill out this form and describe what kind of help you can offer Taproot in the coming months. Perhaps it goes without saying but your cash gift allows us the greatest opportunity to meet immediate needs in a hurry. Click the PayPal button to donate.
And as always coming to our Mainstage shows, recommending friends to our Acting Studio classes, and suggesting your church, business or school book a touring performance are other great ways to keep supporting Taproot, Seattle's theatre of hope.
Where can I purchase a 2010 Season Subscription? Will you be back in your space in time for the first show?
2010 Season Subscriptions are on Sale online. We are looking forward to unveiling our new lobbies and box office in 2010. The renovations are complete in time for C.S. Lewis’ The Great Divorce which will have its Regional Premiere with Taproot in late January. We will update you on the renovation process as it moves forward. Click here to view photos of the theatre.
I heard the costume shop, box office and production offices are in bad shape from the smoke and water damage. Where will they be located during the restoration process and were all costumes and props destroyed?
Gary Brunt, the developer for Piper Village in Greenwood, has allowed us to use a storefront in their ground level retail space for the time being. We are so thankful for Gary’s generosity and are looking forward to using the space. All production offices and the costume shop will be located northwest of the theatre in the Piper Village development until we are able to move back into our renovated, clean space.
Where will the Acting Studio have classes?
Taproot’s Acting Studio will have classes as usual. f you would like to register for a class call the Studio at 206.529.3668.
What happened to the Touring Company’s equipment?
The Touring Company stores some equipment underneath one of the restaurants next door. All costumes and some smaller props are stored in our basement and were, just like everything in the theatre, wet and smoky. The Touring Company has shows all school year at many high schools and elementary schools in the northwest. We have very talented actors and a great touring director who worked quickly to make their shows happen despite the fire. The school touring shows are still available for performances! If you would like to book a show contact Nathan at 206.529.3669
Is your electronic database OK?
Fortunately our server/database is stored in a portion of the theatre basement that didn’t have significant water damage. We still have access to our database, files and records as usual. All back-up materials have been retrieved.
