Under Gutman’s leadership, The Rose went from an organization facing a deficit of $450,000 to being in the black in just one year. This remarkable turnaround was achieved through increased efficiency, attendance and fundraising.
In 2005, The Rose changed from a subscription-based organization with 437 subscribers to a member-based organization with 2,800 families during the theater’s 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons. The influx of new members helped The Rose achieve record public show attendance of 80,870 during its 2006-2007 season – more than doubling the previous years attendance of 38,655.
VGA also led the The Rose through a branding initiative which reinforced the theater’s public image as one organization with two resident companies – the Omaha Theater Company and Omaha Theater Ballet – that are dedicated to serving children and families.
In addition, VGA handles The Rose’s corporate sponsorship campaign, writes grants and helps manage a sustaining drive. These efforts have raised a combined total of $600,000 each year for the past three years. Gutman also recently concluded a successful campaign to substantially increase The Rose’s endowment.
Managing Director, The Rose Theater
“VGA has been an integral part of The Rose for several years. Fundraising from both corporations and foundations has increased, allowing the theater to offer more programs and services to the community and fulfill the mission of enriching the lives of young people and their families through live theater, dance and arts education. VGA provides the structure and support for fundraising in several areas, always working closely with theater leadership to meet common goals.”
