Raleigh Little Theatre Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Raleigh Little Theatre (RLT) is a nonprofit community theatre located in Raleigh, North Carolina, established in 1936. As one of the oldest continuously operating community theatres in the United States, RLT has a rich history of enriching, educating, and entertaining the community through diverse theatrical productions and educational programs.

Mission and Vision

Mission: To use theatre to enrich, educate, entertain, and engage volunteers, students, and audiences of all ages.

Vision:

Performance: Offer innovative, engaging, and diverse theatre and education.

Financial Sustainability: Balance the budget annually and provide long-range plans to grow reserves and revenues.

Facilities/Technologies: Maintain, update, and fully utilize campus-wide facilities, including current technologies and a new master plan.

Education: Provide diversified arts education throughout the community.

Volunteers: Grow and sustain a workforce of welcomed and well-trained community individuals.

Community Collaboration: Bring the community to RLT and bring the theatre experience to the community.

Primary Area of Focus and Industry Significance

RLT focuses on producing a wide variety of theatrical performances, including Broadway-style shows, contemporary works, new plays, family-friendly productions, and teen shows. Additionally, it offers comprehensive youth education programs, serving over 900 students annually. The theatre is a cornerstone of Raleigh's cultural landscape, attracting approximately 40,000 patrons each season.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Deliver high-quality theatrical productions that reflect the community's diversity and interests.

Expand and enhance educational programs to foster creativity and personal growth among participants.

Maintain financial stability and sustainability to support ongoing operations and future growth.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Community engagement through inclusive and accessible theatre experiences.

Youth education in the arts, offering classes and workshops for children and adults.

Hosting special events and performances that cater to diverse audiences.

Key Technologies Utilized

Advanced lighting and sound systems to enhance production quality.

Digital ticketing and marketing platforms to streamline operations and reach a broader audience.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Local residents and visitors in the Raleigh area seeking cultural and entertainment options.

Families and individuals interested in arts education and community involvement.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

RLT operates with an annual budget of approximately $1.44 million, funded through:

Ticket Sales: 42%

Education Classes and Workshops: 14%

Contributed Revenue: 40%

Other Revenue: 4%

Total Revenues and Expenses (2024)

Total Revenues: $1,149,820

Total Expenses: $1,387,039

Notable Investors and Utilization of Capital

RLT receives support from various donors, including individuals, corporations, and foundations. For instance, the John William Pope Foundation awarded a $100,000 grant in 2021 to renovate restrooms adjacent to the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre, enhancing accessibility for patrons and volunteers.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

RLT's upcoming productions for the 2025–2026 season include:

Moonlight and Magnolias: Directed by Betsy Henderson, running February 6–22, 2026, in the Gaddy-Goodwin Teaching Theatre.

1776: Directed by Patrick Torres, running March 27–April 19, 2026, in the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre.

The Hobbit: Directed by Flora Bare, presented May 2–10, 2026, in the Louise “Scottie” Stephenson Amphitheatre.

School of Rock: Directed by Susannah Hough, running June 5–28, 2026, in the Cantey V. Sutton Theatre.

Stages of Development

These productions are in the planning and casting stages, with rehearsals scheduled to begin in early 2026.

Target Conditions

The productions aim to engage a wide range of audiences, from families to theatre enthusiasts, with performances suitable for various age groups.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

February 6–22, 2026: Opening of "Moonlight and Magnolias"

March 27–April 19, 2026: Opening of "1776"

May 2–10, 2026: Opening of "The Hobbit"

June 5–28, 2026: Opening of "School of Rock"

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

RLT utilizes state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems to enhance the theatrical experience. The theatre also employs digital ticketing and marketing platforms to streamline operations and reach a broader audience.

Significant Scientific Methods

While specific scientific methodologies are not detailed, RLT emphasizes the use of current technologies and a new master plan to maintain and update its facilities.

AI-Driven Capabilities

There is no specific information available regarding AI-driven capabilities at RLT.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Michele Weathers: Producing Artistic Director. Previously served as Executive Director and Senior Executive Advisor at Carolina Ballet (2017–2023) and Managing Director at PlayMakers Repertory Company (2014–2016).

Dennis R. Berfield: Production Manager/Technical Director. Holds degrees in Theatre and Communication Studies and a Master of Fine Arts in Scenic Design and Technology.

Terra Hodge: Director of Education. Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Education and a Master of Arts in Media Arts. Previously a Theatre Arts teacher at Culbreth Middle School in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The Raleigh area boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with several organizations offering diverse performances and educational programs. The market is characterized by a strong community interest in the arts, supported by both local residents and visitors.

Competitor Analysis

North Carolina Theatre: A professional theatre company known for staging Broadway productions and offering actor training. Recently faced financial challenges due to declining ticket sales and reduced corporate sponsorships.

Carolina Ballet: A professional ballet company programming traditional ballets and new works by contemporary choreographers. Recently appointed Zalman Raffael as Artistic Director/CEO.

Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC): A performing arts center in Durham, North Carolina, hosting over 200 performances a year, including touring Broadway productions and concerts.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

RLT collaborates with various organizations to enhance its offerings, including:

United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County: Provides support for arts programs.

North Carolina Arts Council: Offers funding and resources for arts initiatives.

City of Raleigh: Provides funding based on recommendations from the Raleigh Arts Commission.

Operational Insights

RLT differentiates itself through its extensive volunteer base, comprising over 600 individuals who participate in various aspects of theatre production. This community involvement fosters a strong connection between the theatre and its patrons.