Hello, dear friends of the Funhouse Lounge.We are in the midst of an unprecedented situation, which seems to change daily.  It is going to take all of us helping each other, emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially, to get through this. Many things we have taken for granted are now gone, some temporarily and some for good.  The longer this crisis lasts, the harder it will be on us all, and the more we may lose.  I am not saying it isn’t the right thing to do, I am just saying it will be difficult.

I believe in the Funhouse and the work we do here.  I have had the opportunity to work beside the most talented, giving and wonderful people, and to provide our audiences with what I consider to be truly amazing, heartfelt and singular experiences. I would love nothing better than to be able to continue to do so.  But, as you can imagine, that is now a question mark.  We are not a non-profit theatre company, with a regular supply of funds through grants and donations. Our only source of income is the tickets to our shows, and the food and drink we sell at those shows.  Those revenue streams are now gone. The other expenses however, such as rent, insurance, various services, etc. still exist.   With no money coming in, either to support the Funhouse or myself personally, I face some very hard choices.  I have carefully considered all my options, made some personal sacrifices, and at this point have decided that I must do everything I can to make sure the Funhouse survives this.

I have never been one to ask for help.  I was raised with a strong work ethic and the idea that you should be able to do everything yourself.  If it’s something difficult, just work harder at it.  Asking for help was a weakness.  But after many years and much reflection,  I recognize that some things cannot or should not be done by yourself;  that some fights need not be fought alone;  that there are others around me willing to help.  In fact, that there are those yearning to help in some way. I like to think I have always been one of those people, so I get that. I believe that the loss of the Funhouse would be a loss not only to me, but to many of you as well.  So, I am asking for help.

I understand things are tough for everyone right now.  So, what I ask is simple: Search your heart, and if you can afford it,  if you love this place and want to help it continue, if you don’t want to live in a world without a Funhouse Lounge, please make a donation. We have tried to make it as easy as possible. You can use a credit card below (for certain set amounts), or the Venmo app (for any amount).

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Until that day we can fearlessly embrace,

Andy Barrett
Artistic Director and Owner
Funhouse Lounge

P.S.  We have our whole space sitting unused right now.  I hate to see it sit empty.  It seems like such a waste. Some of you may have an idea for a temporary use for it, either to generate income or provide support for a local charitable effort. I would welcome these suggestions, or any others, at andy@funhouselounge.com