Phases of Development

Phase 1: The Set-Up
-- Dream Big: A Theatre, Cinema, Coffee Shop, Bar/Restaurant and more…
-- Analyze legal requirements, profit & non-profit entities, organizational structures, and financial figures
-- Research location options: mid-size cities with developing culture & potential building types and configurations
-- Select city and prepare to launch first component: The Sapphire Theatre Company, Inc.
 

Phase 2: The Launch
-- File required documents to create The Sapphire Theatre Company, Inc. (STC) as a legal entity in Indianapolis
-- Select and appoint Board of Directors and begin operations
-- File for non-profit 501(c)(3) status with the IRS
-- “Get The Word Out” – build relationships with audience, patrons, and locally-based companies
-- Strengthen connections with Indianapolis theatres, arts organizations, and artists
-- Begin fundraising – “The Inaugural Campaign”
-- Produce premiere production –Lysistrata by Aristophanes – in alternative venue
-- Phase in paid staff positions and find temporary office location downtown
 

Phase 3: The Development
-- Produce second season in alternative venues – 2 to 3 plays and educational programs
-- Join Theatre Communications Group (www.tcg.org)
-- Continue fundraising efforts, networking, and audience development
-- Explore possible downtown sites for The Sapphire Theatre building
-- Produce third season in alternative venues - 4 plays and educational programs
-- Final preparations to initiate full-scale business plan (See: “Dream Big”)
-- Fundraising drive – “The Capital Campaign”
 

Phase 4: The Establishment
-- Purchase and renovate building into The Sapphire Theatre
-- Open full-scale operations
-- Produce successive seasons in our own theatre space - 4 to 5 plays and educational programs
-- Develop program schedule that includes productions by The STC and guest theatre companies, films, music, dance, and other events
-- Finalize and implement touring plans for established productions
-- Learn, grow and refine operations