Your Gift, Their Future: Gratitude This Giving Season

Kids practicing performance in a classroom

“When I step on stage, I feel brave — like I can do anything.”

Those words from a young Debut Theatre alum capture the heart of what we do — and why it matters. At Debut Theatre Company, every time a child takes the stage, they’re not just performing; they’re discovering their voice, their confidence, and the courage to dream big.

And here’s the best part: our donors make that possible.

Turning Vision Into Reality

Thanks to the generosity of our community, Debut Theatre Company’s $3 million Capital Campaign is transforming a long-held dream into reality. Together, we’ve raised more than $250,000 — more than a quarter of our Phase One goal! Definitely a milestone that’s literally setting the stage for the future of youth performing arts in Northern Colorado. 

That future has a name: The Debut Arts Centre — a vibrant, permanent home where young artists can create, perform, and grow.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Every gift tells a story — a story of belief.

Maybe you’re a parent who’s seen your child blossom on stage. Maybe you’re an alum remembering your first standing ovation. Or maybe you’re a first-time donor who believes in the power of theatre to change lives.

Whatever your reason, your generosity keeps us moving forward. When you give, you’re not just helping build walls and stages — you’re building a space where courage, creativity, and community come together.

A special thank-you goes to Dr. Edward M. Warner and Dame Jacalyn D. Erickson, whose remarkable $250,000 matching grant challenge (through December 2025) is doubling the impact of every gift.

“Children’s theatre is a critical tool in the social development of our kids,” shared Dr. Ed and Dame Jackie. “The skills they learn on and behind the stage last a lifetime. We’re excited to invest in a first-class venue that will expand Debut’s reach and impact.”

Their commitment hasn’t just fueled funding — it’s sparked a movement. When a community believes in its young people and the arts, extraordinary things happen.

Campaign at a Glance

Progress So Far:

  • $250,000+ raised toward $1 million Phase One goal

  • $250,000 matching challenge through December 2025

  • 1 Gold Sponsor, 1 Silver Sponsor, 1 Bronze Sponsor, 2 Design Sponsors, 1 Operational Sponsor

  • 8 seat sponsors

  • $30,000+ via in-kind donations of furniture, materials and a grand piano!

  • We’re in the news! Have a listen to our public radio interview or check out our front page Bizwest or Coloradoan articles.

Together, we’re proving what’s possible when creativity meets community support.

The Power of Your Giving

Why does this matter so much? Because theatre changes lives.

Research shows that participation in the performing arts strengthens communication skills, empathy, and self-confidence. We see it every day:

  • Shy kids who once hesitated to speak now command the stage.

  • Teens who struggle with confidence discover voices that carry through the rafters.

When you give, you’re fueling that transformation. Your donation helps us:

  • Expand access to arts education for more Northern Colorado youth.

  • Create new opportunities for mentorship and performance.

  • Provide scholarships to families who otherwise couldn’t participate.

  • Build a lasting legacy for generations of artists to come.

Keep the Momentum Going

Your support has already made a difference — now let’s finish the stage together.

Here’s how you can keep the dream alive:

  • Give Today: Every dollar donated through 2025 is matched — your impact instantly doubles.

  • Spread the Word: Share Debut’s story with friends, coworkers, or on social media. A simple conversation can inspire another donor.

  • Volunteer: Get involved! From campaign updates to future performances, we’d love to have you join the journey.

  • Honor Someone Special: Make a donation in honor of a loved one who believes in the power of the arts.

With Deepest Gratitude

As we celebrate this progress, we’re reminded of a shared belief — the one that unites every donor, volunteer, and supporter:

Belief that theatre arts truly matter.
Belief that every young person deserves a place to dream, grow, and shine.
Belief that when creativity and community come together, we build a brighter future for all.

Because of you, the Debut Arts Centre is no longer just a dream on paper — it’s becoming a home built one generous gift at a time. 

Thank you for helping raise the curtain on a future full of possibility.

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Debut Theatre’s Vision for a New Home Featured on KRFC & BizWest