I am writing to urge support for the Foothill Theatre Company. From 1993 through 2004, I was honored to serve as artistic director of FTC; my wife, Clare Henkel, was an affiliate artist. It grieves us to see FTC in such dire straits, and we have made a donation of $250 to show our support.

FTC is a nonprofit organization that enriches the lives of many thousands of patrons annually. Professional theater companies depend upon contributed income, as well as ticket sales, in order to maintain high standards of quality.

FTC has for many years been undercapitalized, and yet has produced outstanding work, comparable to what can be seen on professional stages in major cities (in fact, many of the artists hired over the years have also performed with - or directed and designed for - these major theater companies). Many communities have outstanding amateur theater companies, yet few towns the size of Nevada City can boast a quality professional theater like FTC.

We have complete confidence in the current leadership of FTC; they have done an outstanding job, and deserve a chance to execute the new business plan. Please consider making a gift to FTC, as we have. There is very little time left to save the company - it is important to act immediately.

Philip C. Sneed

producing artistic director,

Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Boulder, Colo.