East Lynne Theater Company, recently the recipient of The New Jersey Theatre Alliance's "Achievement of Excellence Award" for "30 years of celebrating America's heritage through productions and educational programs," has another reason to celebrate. The company received a grant of $7,500.00 from the Cooperative Marketing Program, provided by the New Jersey Department of State: Division of Travel and Tourism, stating in the accompanying letter that "your comprehensive application and well-developed marketing plan persuaded the committee of your commitment to strengthening your own mission, supporting regional and state tourism and working toward a stronger New Jersey economy." This is the third year in a row that ELTC has received this prestigious grant, and it will be used solely for advertising.

Aside from placing ads and articles in magazines and newspapers outside of South Jersey, ELTC's touring productions are another way in which the company spreads the word about what Cape May has to offer. Funding for these productions comes only from the organizations sponsoring ELTC's touring shows, yet the town of Cape May benefits: in 2009, 10% of ELTC's patrons came to Cape May just to see an East Lynne production, many having seen a recent touring show. This year, "Lizzie Borden Live," "Someone Must Wash the Dishes," "Victorian Magic," "Paul Robeson Through His Words and Music," and "Yellow Wallpaper" were seen in five different states, and eight different counties in New Jersey.

ELTC also received funding this year from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Dept. of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts; The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, through the National Endowment for the Arts, administered by the NJ State Council on the Arts; Target, Curran Investment Management, La Mer Beachfront Inn, and many patrons. It would not be possible for the nonprofit East Lynne Theater Company to provide quality theater at reasonable prices without such financial help.

There are two more productions in 2009: "Sherlock Holmes' Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle" and "Christmas in Black and White." The annual fundraiser is on November 12, and soon season tickets will be available for 2010. For information about the main stage production season, educational outreach, and touring shows, contact the office at 884-5898 or online at www.eastlynnetheater.org.