The Chemainus Theatre Festival’s annual silent auction has never been more important for the organization.
With the theatre shut down for stage performances since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the need is greater than ever for the theatre to garner donations, bids and overall support.
The auction has gone strictly on-line this year, with the 2020 edition quickly winding down toward the Dec. 21 deadline – just in time for folks to submit winning bids for unique items to place under the Christmas tree. All proceeds go toward the Crisis Relief Fund to help the theatre weather this challenging time.
“The auction is doing really well, but there are some items that could do with a little more action on them,” said Marlie Kelsey.
She’s the main coordinator of the auction, but working closely with the theatre’s managing director Randy Huber and Sue Menzies.
“It’s been a team effort,” said Kelsey.
The theatre is grateful to the artists and companies for supporting the auction.
“Local businesses have been very generous, as have the people bidding,” Kelsey indicated. “We have some donations of wonderful art from people like Richard Brodeur (King Richard), Tom Shardlow, J.D. Stevenson and Ruggid Art.
“The most intriguing donation is from Cowichan Eye Care, a treatment that helps dry eyes and also tightens the skin around the eyes. There are cases of wine and a gin basket, lots of other baskets, and gift certificates galore, one which has a one-hour plus dog training session with Wingnut Training.”
You can check out all the items by visiting the Chemainus Theatre’s auction page.
“We hope you find something you can’t resist bidding on,” reads a statement from theatre staff. “Together, we will survive and return stronger than ever.”
The theatre has also just announced the Playbill Dining Room will be open for a New Year’s Eve dinner that will include wine pairings.
“We’re doing what we can,” said Huber. “It’s pretty tough right now with the restrictions.
“We’ve got the restaurant open for a few dates and we’ll have the restaurant open on New Year’s Eve, but that’s about it.”
