$10 million gift from Elysabeth Kleinhans to support theater productions

Off-Broadway’s 59E59 Theaters has received a $10 million donation from the The Elysabeth Kleinhans Theatrical Foundation to support the company and its artistic programs.

Effective this summer, the array of productions that open annually at 59E59 will be able to use the company’s three performance spaces and equipment without incurring the weekly cost of rent.

“By eliminating rental fees for producing plays at our venue, the Foundation has shattered one of the many financial barriers to emerging companies presenting new works, opening our doors to diverse voices and innovative productions that might otherwise not be seen,” shared Managing Director Brian Beirne in a statement.

This new model will help to sustain the cultural impact of the companies who call 59E59 home, including their resident companies Primary Stages, LAByrinth Theater Company, New Light Theater Project, No.11 Productions, and Happenstance Theater.

“This extraordinary act of generosity is not just a financial contribution; it’s a resounding vote of confidence in our theatre’s mission and a game-changer for the entire performing arts community,” added Artistic Director Val Day. “Now, artistic merit, more than financial ability, will be the guiding force in bringing stories to life on our stage.”

This donation extends 59E59’s unique producing model: Funded almost entirely by a single foundation, 59E59 has, over the last 20 years, chosen more than 800 plays and musicals for production with highly subsidized rental rates, as well as production, ticketing, Front of House, marketing, and press support.

Under that model, the Foundation has underwritten the cost of visiting theatre companies performing at 59E59 Theaters by approximately $1.8 million per year. The new model increases funding to $2.3 million per year.