What is the purpose of the Illinois Theatre Conservatory?
To educate, train and inspire young performing artists for a career in musical Theatre. The curriculum is administered through a conservatory-style program, a practical rather than strictly academic approach, wherein the students are completely immersed in the art form. Mentored by professionals in the industry and working in and around an established regional company, students emerge from the program with a proven working knowledge of the musical Theatre business and the tools necessary to launch a career in the performing arts.

How will a college for musical Theatre be an asset for North Central Illinois?
The Illinois Theatre Conservatory will attract vital, creative artists as both students and faculty, who will become contributing members to our community. The productions and presentations of the college will add cultural depth and economic strength. Studies show that cities with institutions of higher learning are more attractive, stimulating and fulfilling places to live.

Who will attend this college?
Young performing artists from around the country who demonstrate considerable talent and dedication to the art form will be considered for admission to the program

How will it be funded?
Startup funds for the Illinois Theatre Conservatory will be provided in large part by the proceeds of the “Setting the Stage” community campaign.

Do you have a business plan for the Illinois Theatre Conservatory?
Yes. With assistance and input from the Small Business Administration office at Illinois Valley Community College, we developed a detailed business plan for opening the conservatory.
It has been reviewed by several business and bank officials and continues to be updated and refined as we progress.

What will provide the primary income for the Illinois Theatre Conservatory?
Once up and running, the college will be funded by tuition proceeds, scholarships, ticket sales from theatrical productions and grants. As a private college, it will receive absolutely no revenue from public taxes.

Will college credits earned be transferable in the event students decide to pursue a four-year degree?
Yes. We have worked closely with Illinois Valley Community College to allow students to earn transferable college credits as part of their curriculum.

Why is the Princeton Theatre Group conducting a community campaign?
To raise the funds necessary to create the facilities for the Illinois Theatre Conservatory in the former Bureau County Republican building, and fund the startup costs and first year operating deficit of the college.

What is the goal of the campaign and how will my gift be used?
The challenge goal we have set for ourselves is $750,000. The first portion of the campaign proceeds (approximately $550,000) will pay for the renovation costs of the facility. The remainder of the proceeds will be used as startup funds.

Are gifts to the Princeton Theatre Group tax deductible?
Yes. As stated before, the Princeton Theatre Group is a 501©3 nonprofit organization in good standing with the State of Illinois. In addition, we are not funded in any way by taxing bodies. All of our annual revenue is raised through ticket sales and fundraising.

How have you assessed the possibility of reaching a major goal for the “Setting the Stage” campaign?
In late spring of 2007, we hired Jackson & Associates, Inc. a recognized authority and fundraising consultant, to conduct a feasibility study on our behalf to explore the possibility of success in this campaign. The study indicated that we would be successful in achieving our major goal. Subsequently, we hired Jackson & Associates, Inc. to direct this campaign

Aside from the educational benefits to the students, what other benefits do you anticipate?
First, the college will create 15-20 new jobs. Next, fifty or more students plus faculty and staff living and working in downtown Princeton will have a considerable positive economic impact on the community. Additionally, the presence of constant live Theatre being available to everyone will have significant cultural impact. And, finally, a burgeoning reputation for excellence in the performing arts will only help this region’s tourism.

What types of gifts will be accepted?
We will accept cash, pledges, in-kind donations, planned and deferred giving, gifts of stock and investments and grants.

How will donors be recognized?
Donors will be acknowledged with naming opportunities and plaques inside the finished facility.

Are memorial gifts available?
Yes. Naming opportunities will be available throughout the building as well as the building itself.

Who should I call to express my interest in the “Setting the Stage” campaign?
You may contact the Festival Center 
815/879-5656 x13,
or the Campaign Administrative Assistant, Ruby Sneed
815/875-8400