The Artcraft Sponsorship Party: All you need to know

It’s a fresh new year, and with that comes a new season of epic movies at the Historic Artcraft Theatre. We’ve learned in past blog posts that the Artcraft’s amazing sponsors help keep the show on the road when it comes funding movies, concessions, and other expenses the theatre incurs. But how does someone sponsor a movie? In comes the Annual Artcraft Sponsorship Party, – the Artcraft’s largest fundraiser. 

The 2023 sponsorship party is right around the corner, happening on February 4, 2023. What to know more about the hippest party Franklin has seen? Keep on reading. 

What is the Artcraft Sponsorship party?
This annual shindig is where sponsors bid on the movies that will be shown at the theatre over the next year. In addition to movies, you can bid on opportunities to sponsor the concessions, cartoons, and other areas that are all a part of weekend shows. 

What is the purpose of sponsoring a movie or another aspect of the theatre? 
As we discovered when talking to George Chimples, film, fundraising, and grants coordinator, about how the theatre curates its annual program, we know that programming and showing movies at a repertory theatre can come with dollar signs. For instance, many people don’t know that studios take a large cut of a theatre's box office ticket sales. 35% upwards to 50% of all ticket sales go straight back to the producers – even for older movies that the Artcraft shows. Sponsorships help offset the costs such as film licensing, production costs, equipment rental, talent fees and more – and in turn keeps ticket and concession prices low so the community can keep enjoying movies for another century. 

In exchange for sponsorship, sponsors receive complimentary tickets and lots of advertising.

Traditionally a full house fills the theater and overflows into the adjoining cottage.

What happens at the party?
This is the Artcraft’s biggest party of the year. Expect lots of food and fun! Plan on filling up with grilled food. Our friends from Greek's Tapp Room are serving beer, wine, and cocktails. In addition to the sponsorship, you’ll also be the first to see what movies are on the slate for the 2023-24 season.

How does bidding work?
All bidding is done by silent auction using your phone and the bidding system, OneCause. It’s easy to use and volunteers are available to help if you have any issues. If you can’t attend the Sponsorship party in person, individuals can register to bid from the comfort of their own home. 
    
Q: When did the annual sponsorship party begin?
The annual shindig was established in 2005, just shortly after Franklin Heritage Inc. acquired the theatre and began showing movies regularly. Each year brings a different theme. 2022’s Sponsorship party was “Homecoming,” with attendees dawning their highschool varsity jackets, cheer uniforms, football jerseys, and attire from their alma mater. Other themes have included baseball, pirates, and ‘50s, just to name a few. 

Costumes are encouraged. It makes the evening more fun for everyone!

Q: What is this year’s theme?
This year's theme is ‘50’s - ‘60’s Lounge Party – think Mad Men cocktail lounge! your swankiest cocktail party attire – lounge style, hi-fi hip scene – and get ready to groove like it’s 1962. 

Q: How can I get involved?
The party is open to everyone aged 21+. Tickets are $40 and include a meal, drinks, and a night to remember.

Get the evening’s schedule and register to attend here. 

When posting your party pics, make sure to use #ArtcraftParty2023!