Stratford Development Corporation

Stratford Development Supports the Arts

Have you ever wondered about the saying "starving artists?" If you've ever been in a community theater production, you'll know that in this context, it refers to the fact that none of the cast is paid. What's more, props and costumes are oftentimes provided by the cast as well. HELLO! If that's the case, how does the Raytown Arts Council pull off such professional-looking productions each year?

Answer: Companies such as Stratford Development help defray costs for the biggest ticket-item - the backdrops. These are lavish, real-looking painted scenes that change during the production.

For the past several years Stratford has been honored to sponsor a backdrop for the Raytown Arts Council performances.

"We can't begin to tell you how much we've appreciated business sponsorships," said Director of the Raytown Arts Council, Alyse Stoll. "Backdrops are one of the most expensive items in a production, because they come from major theatrical houses back east. Backdrops tell the story almost as much as the cast."

To offset the costs for renting such drops - a total that can amount to more than $1,000 - the Raytown Arts Council began a program called Adopt-A-Drop. For a complimentary full-page ad in the playbill program, the Council gives businesses a choice of backdrops that are required in the play.

"Stratford Development is proud to be able to support our local Arts Council in this manner," said President Ken Blom. "They do an outstanding job and bring notoriety to our city with such quality performances. This year we sponsored the Southern Mansion Terrace scene in Mame, and designed a matching stylized, full-page ad in the playbill.

So mark your calendar each July for a great stage production by our local arts council. It's great entertainment, and makes for great press for your organization.

If you'd like more information on how to support the Raytown Arts Council, call Alyse Stoll at 816-353-3593. I'm sure they'd welcome money or prop donations.