Ars Nova, “a company known for pop-culture-savvy experimentation, with a hipness that sets it apart” (New York Times), raised over $400,000 during The Ars Nova Forever Telethon, a 24-hour livestream featuring more than 200 artists.
The free event celebrated Ars Nova’s past and present while raising funds to support the company’s artistic programs throughout the unconventional 2020-2021 season.
Ars Nova’s Founding Artistic Director Jason Eagan commented, “Our theaters and rehearsal rooms may be dark, but this digital event has been a resounding statement on how active and buoyant our community remains. The generosity of spirit and talent from every single Telethon participant, the staff and the Ars Nova community at large has made this massive undertaking a great success! We’re deeply grateful for the financial generosity of everyone who has given so far, contributing to our resilience as we look toward brighter days together.”
Taking inspiration from classic TV marathons, The Ars Nova Forever Telethon featured 12 two-hour blocks of programming spotlighting some of Ars Nova’s most beloved shows, artists, alums and friends. Elisabeth Vincentelli in The New York Times said this “ambitious online project might well be one of the virtual events you’ll brag about seeing in 10 years.”