Dear friends,

At City Lights Theater Company, we believe that theater is more than entertainment—it’s a spark for conversation, a mirror for society, and a gathering place for our community. You’ve helped make this possible, and we’re incredibly grateful. Right now, the arts are facing some serious challenges across the country, and especially here in California. While our state leads the nation in artist jobs, it ranks just 35th in arts funding.

In recent months, several major grants we applied for have been canceled, including one from the National Endowment for the Arts that could have helped fund a world premiere. Many groups that typically redistribute NEA funds have paused their programs, and, at the time of this writing, Governor Newsom was prepared to cut funding for the long-awaited Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund. Thanks to grass-roots advocacy from arts-lovers like you all across the state, the fund has now been restored. However, it’s remains a tough moment, and a powerful reminder of how much we really do rely on our community to keep the arts alive.

Due to these shifting priorities, we estimate that we've lost out on more than $150,000 in funding this fiscal year. Can we count on you to stand with us and help ensure CLTC remains strong, resilient, and impactful in the face of these challenges?

Thank you for being part of our City Lights family. Your generosity is not just a gift to City Lights; it’s a statement that the arts matter.

With gratitude and hope,

Lisa Mallette
Executive Artistic Director

In a survey, we asked our audiences what they think of when they think "City Lights." This word could reflects their answers.

In a survey, we asked our audiences what they think of when they hear "City Lights." This word cloud reflects their answers.

Mollie and Giles Ralston (Alycia Adame and Myles Kenyon Rowland) are newlyweds running a guesthouse in the English countryside in "The Mousetrap" by Agatha Christie.

The behind-the-scenes team for “The Cake.” Stage Manager Ben Hemmen, Assistant Stage Manager Ezra Endamne-Wamba, and crew member Olivia Mallette.

Just a few of our Front of House team.

Audience members at a post-show party following “The Cake.”

Nico Jaochicho and Gwynnevere Cristobal are ready to totally rock out at our Neon Groove Ball in April 2025. It was a totally rad party!

City Lights Summer Giving Campaign 2025

We are raising money to replace the potential grant funding of $150,000. Can we count on you to help?

Team Members