PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                          

Contact: Erin Friedrich, Communications Manager

Phone: (978) 654-7596

Email: friedrich@merrimackrep.org

Lowell, MA – September 27, 2007: Join the Friends of MRT on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 from 6:00-8:30 pm at the theatre (50 E. Merrimack Street) to receive a VIP backstage tour and to learn about how you can be a part of one of the city’s cultural landmarks—by joining the Friends of MRT!  This event is open to the public and completely free. Light refreshments and beverages will be served. MRT will be offering a special discounted rate for any new subscribers who sign up that evening. RSVP by October 8, 2007 to 978-654-7552.

The Friends of MRT are a volunteer group that serves as Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s fundraising auxiliary by helping to develop new sources of contributed income through the organization of special events, social functions, and fundraisers. They serve as ambassadors for the theatre in the community and play a pivotal role in strengthening the theatre’s base of support, often by introducing people to MRT for the first time. They have a great time putting together events! This past spring the Friends of MRT produced the successful Tsongas Award Gala, which raised over $113,000 to produce award-winning, quality theatre for our region.

The Friends of MRT are already planning exciting events for the 2007-2008 season; however, the group needs to grow in order to accomplish bigger, broader goals. Are you interested in sharing your creativity, time and talent with MRT? An upbeat social environment, networking opportunities and absolute fun await you! There are many ways to participate at a level of time and commitment that best suits your schedule. Be a part of a valuable cultural institution; contribute to your community and see the reward you can receive from what you give.

For more information or to RSVP, please contact Jeff Prescott at 978-654-7552 or development@merrimackrep.org.

For MRT show times, tickets, season information, directions, or to request a brochure, please visit www.merrimackrep.org  - or call the box office at (978) 654-4MRT (4678).

The best in contemporary American theatre awaits you!

# # #

Merrimack Repertory Theatre is located in beautiful historic downtown Lowell at Liberty Hall, the Company’s 308-seat theatre, 50 E. Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA 01852 (adjacent to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium).  Each season, MRT presents an eclectic mix of six contemporary productions, engaging the best actors, designers and directors in the country while promoting accessibility among diverse audiences.  Founded in 1979 by a group of committed community leaders, MRT’s mission is “To advance the cause of human understanding by creating theatrical productions at the highest level of artistic excellence and making them affordable to the broadest possible community.”  MRT’s unique artistic vision is shaped by a passion for excellence, a profound commitment to its community, and an enduring spirit of exploration.  MRT strives to enhance the community’s life while contributing to its economic strength, measuring success by the depth of the Company’s artistic and social contribution to the region.