HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-587-E-County Mgr-Chelsea Art Theater Inc-2025-2026 Arts Grants
GRASSROOTS ARTS PROGRAM / ARTIST PROJECT GRANT 2025-26
Grantee Name
Authorizing Official Name
Email
Project Title
Award $
Grant Category ☐Grassroots Arts Program ☐Artist Project Grant Program
Funding Source ☐North Carolina Arts Council ☐Orange County
Grant project period July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
As Authorizing Official, I acknowledge the following terms and understand if they are not met, I jeopardize future
funding opportunities from the Orange County Arts Commission. I understand a Compliance Score is issued for future
grants based on my adherence to the following terms:
OCAC Report Due July 10, 2026
Multicultural Spending Grantee must spend $ on the hiring of multicultural artists as
specified in the grant application.
Crediting and logo usage All grantees must properly credit the Orange County Arts Commission using the
proper logo on all publicity materials for the funded program. Recipients of
operations-related grants must include the OCAC logo with link to
www.artsorange.org on grantee’s website. If funding source is listed as N.C. Arts
Council above, grantee must also properly credit the N.C. Arts Council using the
proper logos and N.C. Arts Council credit line on all publicity materials for
funded program. Download logos on the OCAC website at
https://artsorange.org/grants/grantee-resources.
Calendar Listing Grantee must enter all events, exhibits, and performances open to the
public and related to this grant award on the Orange County Arts Commission
website at www.artsorange.org/events.
$4,500.00
emily.kass@thechelseatheater.org
Chelsea Art Theater Inc
X
X
Emily Kass
General Operating Support
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
1
Revised August 2025
ORANGE COUNTY
ARTS COMMISSION
2025-26 GRANT
AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, entered into this 5 day of September, 2025, by and between Orange County
("County"), by and through the Orange County Arts Commission ("Arts Commission") and
("Grant Recipient").
WHEREAS, the Arts Commission is a countywide arts agency that ensures the growth of
local arts experiences by providing funding and support for diverse high quality programs and
projects.
WHEREAS, the Arts Commission administers the annual Grants Program to provide
economic opportunities to Orange County artists and non-profit organizations coordinating arts
projects benefiting the citizens of Orange County.
WHEREAS, the annual Arts Grants Program is supported by Arts Commission with funds
from the Grassroots Arts Program of the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department
of Natural and Cultural Resources, a state agency.
WHEREAS, the Grant Recipient was selected by the Arts Commission to receive
the annual Arts Grant through the procedures duly adopted by the Arts Commission; and
WHEREAS, both parties wish to promote and maintain the integrity and clarity of the Grant
Recipient's ideas and statements and delineate the Grant Recipient’s obligations to the County;
NOW, THEREFORE, the County and the Grant Recipient, for the consideration
and under the conditions hereinafter set forth, agree as follows:
1. Approved Grant Project. Grant funds are provided under this Agreement for the project
(“Project”) described in the Grant Recipient’s Grant Application, attached hereto and
incorporated herein as Exhibit A.
2. Grant Award. Grant funds in an amount not to exceed
($ )
have been awarded by the Arts Commission to the Grant Recipient for the approved Project.
The Recipient shall be required to match funds at least dollar-for-dollar with cash from the
Grant Recipient’s funds not derived from either Orange County appropriations or the North
Carolina Arts Council, as outlined in the attached Exhibit A.
3. Contingency. This grant is contingent on North Carolina Arts Council Grassroots
Program funding to the Arts Commission. Final decisions on Grassroots Program funds
to the North Carolina Arts Council are subject to approval by the North Carolina General
Assembly.
4. Responsibilities of the Grant Recipient
4,500.00four thousand five hundred dollars
Chelsea Art Theater Inc
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Revised August 2025
A. Implementation. The Project implementation shall take place between July 1, 2025
and June 30, 2026. The Project shall be implemented in the manner described in
Exhibit A. Time is of the essence in the implementation of the Project.
B. Modifications to project. Grant Recipient shall present major changes to the original
proposal, including but not limited to changes in design, implementation schedule
and increase in Project budget by more than 10%, in writing to the Arts Commission
for approval. Arts Commission shall approve or disapprove Grant Recipient’s
request for modifications within seven (7) days of receipt thereof. Consent to
project modifications shall not be unreasonably withheld. Arts Commission’s
decisions shall be in writing. In the event the Arts Commission fails to approve or
disapprove the requested modifications within the time stated herein, the
modifications shall be deemed approved.
C. Non–assignment. The grant cannot be assigned or transferred to a different project
or artist without prior written approval of the Arts Commission.
D. Records. Grant Recipient must maintain records and other evidence pertaining to
costs incurred and revenues acquired during the Project implementation. Grant
Recipient shall maintain financial records pertaining to the Project for three (3)
years from the date of this Agreement, in case of audit.
E. Use of Funds. Grant Recipient shall not use the grant funds to repay outstanding
taxes or other debts of any nature. The grants shall be utilized solely for the purpose
described in the attached Exhibit A.
F. Final Report. Grant Recipient shall submit to the Arts Commission a Final Report
on July 10, 2026. The Final Report shall be in the format required by the North
Carolina Arts Council. Failure to submit the Final Report or late submission of the
Final Report, for any reason, shall be grounds for denial and/or cancellation of grant
funds for the Project and future grant proposals.
5. Responsibilities of the Arts Commission
A. Payment. The Arts Commission shall release the grant funds in the amount of
$ to the Grant Recipient.
6. Publicity
A. Acknowledgement. Credit must be given to the Orange County Arts Commission
and/or the North Carolina Arts Council using the proper logo(s) and credit
line in brochures, news releases, programs, and all other printed and online
publications. Copies of such printed materials must accompany the evaluation
report. Official Orange County Arts Commission and North Carolina Arts Council
logos may be downloaded at www.artsorange.org/grantee-resources and may not
be altered in any way. When no printed information is used, verbal
4,500.00
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
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Revised August 2025
credit shall be given. In addition, all print and promotional material must include
the following credit line and logo(s) (check all that apply):
i. County Funds Only. Orange County Arts Commission logo required.
Credit line required for audio projects: “This program is supported by the
Orange County Arts Commission.”
ii. North Carolina Arts Council Funding. The Orange County Arts
Commission and the North Carolina Arts Council logos are required. Credit
line: “This program is supported by the N.C. Arts Council, a division of the
Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.”
B. The Grant Recipient must enter all events, exhibits, and performances open to the
public and related to this grant award on the Orange County Arts Commission
website at www.artsorange.org/events. In addition, the Grant Recipient must add
a link to www.artsorange.org (Orange County Arts Commission logo preferred) to
their main webpage.
7. Indemnity. The Grant Recipient agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the County, the
Arts Commission and the North Carolina Arts Council and their officers and employees
from any and all claims or actual injury, damage or loss to a person, or real or personal
property that results from or is in any way connected to the use of the grant funds.
8. Independent Contractor. The Grant Recipient is an independent contractor and not an
employee, agent or other representative of the County and/or the Arts Commission.
Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed to create the relationship of
principal and agent, or employer and employee, between Grant Recipient and Arts
Commission or Orange County Government. Grant Recipient understands and agrees that
he/she is not authorized to incur any expenses or any liability whatsoever on behalf of the
County or the Arts Commission and has no authority, expressed or implied, to obligate or
make representations on behalf of the County or the Arts Commission. In addition, Grant
Recipient agrees to maintain his or her own worker's compensation insurance for
himself/herself and his or her employees for the duration of the art work's installation.
9. Termination
A. In the event of any of the circumstances set forth below (hereinafter referred to as
“default”), the Arts Commission may immediately terminate this Agreement:
(i) Any fraudulent representation in any verification required to obtain
payment under this Agreement or other dishonesty on a material matter
relating to the performance of services under this Agreement.
(ii) Nonperformance, incomplete service or performance, or failure to
satisfactorily perform any part of the Project or to comply with any
provision of this Agreement, as determined by the Arts Commission in its
sole discretion.
X
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
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Revised August 2025
(iii) Failure to adhere to the terms of applicable county, state or federal laws,
regulations, or stated public policy.
B. In the event of default by the Grant Recipient, the Arts Commission has the
discretion to elect to terminate this Agreement, in whole or in part and/or require
the Grant Recipient to repay the grant funds within seven (7) from written notice of
default or allow the grant recipient the opportunity to cure the default. This clause
shall not be interpreted to limit the County’s or the Arts Commission’s remedies in
law or in equity.
10. Miscellaneous.
A. Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the attachments contain the final and entire
understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement.
All modifications and amendments to this Agreement shall be in writing. This
Agreement shall be binding upon the parties, their heirs, successors and assigns.
B. Governing Law. Governing Law and Priority: Both parties agree that this
Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina and
Orange County. Grant Recipient shall at all times remain in compliance with all
applicable local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations including but not
limited to all state and federal anti-discrimination laws, policies, rules, and
regulations and the Orange County Non-Discrimination Policy and Orange
County Living Wage Policy
(each policy is incorporated herein by reference and may be viewed at
http://www.orangecountync.gov/departments/purchasing_division/contracts.php.).
Any violation of this requirement is a breach of this Agreement and Arts
Commission may immediately terminate this Agreement without further
obligation on the part of the Arts Commission. This paragraph is not intended to
limit and does not limit the definition of breach to discrimination. By executing
this Agreement the Grant Recipient certifies that they has not been identified, and
has not utilized the services of any agent or subcontractor identified, on the list
created by the State Treasurer pursuant to G.S. 147-86.58. By executing this
Agreement the Grant Recipient certifies that they has not been identified, and has
not utilized the services of any agent or subcontractor identified, on the list
created by the State Treasurer pursuant to G.S. 147-86.81. By executing this
Agreement Grant Recipient affirms they are and shall remain in compliance with
Article 2 of Chapter 64 of the North Carolina General Statutes. In determining
the basic services to be provided, should any documents be referenced in or
attached to this Agreement, the terms herein shall have priority in any conflict
between the terms of referenced documents and the terms of this Agreement.
C. Dispute Resolution: Neither party may initiate binding arbitration. Any disputes
shall be resolved by nonbinding mediation. If such mediation fails either party may
initiate litigation to resolve the dispute. Should either party initiate litigation to
settle any dispute involving the terms of this Agreement such litigation shall be
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
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Revised August 2025
initiated in the General Court of Justice of North Carolina seated in Orange
County, North Carolina.
D. Signatures. This Agreement together with any amendments or modifications may
be executed electronically. All electronic signatures affixed hereto evidence the
intent of the Parties to comply with Article 11A and Article 40 of North Carolina
General Statute Chapter 66.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Orange County and the Grant Recipient have signed this Grant
Agreement, effective on the last date this Agreement is signed by both parties as indicated by the
dates set forth under signatures below.
For and on behalf of the Grant Recipient
Date
For and on behalf of Orange County Government
Travis Myren, County Manager Date
Emily Kass, Executive Director
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
9/21/2025
9/26/2025
ORANGE COUNTY—INTERNAL USE ONLY
Revised 01/24
1
Finance Information
Vendor Name: Vendor Contact Person:
Phone: Address: City:
State: NC Zip: Department: County Manager’s Office/Arts Commission
Amount: Purpose: 2025-2026 Arts Grants
Budget Code(s): 37290050-630000 Vendor #
Vendor Status with NCSOS: Vendor is a BOCC consultant: Yes No
Contract Details
Contract Type: X New Amendment (Original Contract: )
(Most Recent Amendment )
Effective Date End Date Notice Date (Notice Purpose )
Award
Approved by Board (Agenda Date: ); Made or Administered by
Signature Authority
- BOCC Express Delegation (Agenda Date: )
- Policy 9.4: Under $5,000; Service Under $90,000; Construction Under $250,000
- Budget Policy Section XV (Capital Improvement Project: )
Bidding
Informal Bidding ($30k-$90k); Formal RFP ($90k+); Other (<$30k); Exception (# )
Department Affirmation
This agreement is approved as to technical form and content and I as Department Director affirmatively state work on this pro ject
has not been initiated prior to execution of the agreement.
This agreement is approved as to technical form and content . Services related to this agreement have already begun or been
completed. Description of the nature of the emergency condition that was addressed:
Department Director’s Signature Date:
Chapel Hill
Emily Kass
1129 Weaver Dairy Rd. STE AB(919) 929-8428
27514
Chelsea Art Theater Inc
65826
$4,500.00
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
9/17/2025
ORANGE COUNTY—INTERNAL USE ONLY
Revised 01/24
2
Information Technologies
This agreement has been reviewed and is approved as to information technology content and specifications:
Office of the Chief Information Officer Date:
Inapplicable because no hardware/software purchases or related services
Risk Management
This agreement is approved for sufficiency of insurance standards, specifications, and requirements:
Office of the Risk Management Officer Date:
Financial Services
This instrument has been pre-audited in the manner required by the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act:
Office of the Chief Financial Officer Date:
Legal Services
This agreement is approved as to legal form and sufficiency:
Office of the County Attorney Date:
Clerk to the Board
All DocuSign contracts must be copied to the Clerk upon completion: occlerkdocs@orangecountync.gov
The following signature block is for hard copies only and is not required for DocuSign contracts:
Received for record retention:
Office of the Clerk to the Board Date:
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
9/22/2025
9/22/2025
9/25/2025
Orange County Arts Commission Powered by Submittable
Title Chel sea Art Theater Inc
by Emily Kass in 2025-26 Grassroots Arts Project
Application
Chelsea Theater
1129 Weaver Dairy Road Ste AB
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
27514
United States
919-929-8428
emily.kass@thechelseatheater.org
06/30/2025
id. 50949850
Original Submission 06/30/2025
Score n/a
APPLICANT
INFORMATION
Please tell us about your organization.
Organization Name Chelsea Art Theater Inc
DBA Chelsea Theater
Is the Applicant
Organization serving
as a fiscal agent for
an unincorporated
group?
No
Mailing Address of
Organization
1129 W eaver Dairy Rd. STE AB
Chapel Hill
North Carolina
27514
US
35.9621259
-79.054794
How did you hear
about our grant
program?
Other
Did you or a
representative of
your orgnanization
attend one of our
grants training
sessions?
No
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
Nature of
Organization
Arts Organization
Organization
Description The Chelsea Theater is a nonprofit arthouse cinema that is dedicated to
bringing the world of film to the Triangle and bringing our local community
closer together -- all in a welcoming, comfortable, and friendly environment.
The Chelsea presents a dynamic mix of first-run, independent, feature, and
documentary films, ranging from works by internationally known directors to
films by new and emerging filmmakers based globally and here in North
Carolina. Film is an artistic medium with the power to engage, inspire,
educate and entertain. It opens a window on the world through which
audiences can navigate the complexity of the human experience, the
beauty of the natural world, and better understand some of the greatest
challenges, past and present. The Chelsea’s programming has two
focuses: first run films and repertory/classic films. Two film festivals are
hosted at the Chelsea: Cosmic Rays (2024 and 2025) and the Jewish Film
Festival (six films, co-organized with Jewish for Good).
W hether through thematically organized film series that explore a variety of
relevant topics or through repertory and classic films, the Chelsea is a
unique community resource. Many of our programs involve collaborations
with UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke University, and community groups and feature
faculty members and other local experts to introduce films and discuss a
range of social, environmental and cultural themes. As the only arthouse
theater in Triangle the theater serves and enriches Orange County and
beyond.
The Chelsea’s board of directors is comprised of twelve individuals with
backgrounds in corporate and nonprofit leadership, higher education (Duke
and UNC faculty specializing in film and music), marketing and sales,
finance, and film . In addition, volunteers serve on committees, typically
with the idea that they may be board candidates in the next year. Staff
changes continue to make the organization stronger. In addition to the
executive director, there is a full-time operations manager and a full-time
programmer; a part time marketing manager and part time (ten hour per
week) social media coordinator. W e are in the process of hiring a part-time
development assistant to work with the director and board. There are nine
part-time ticketing and concessions personnel who include college students
and retirees. The Chelsea is open seven days a week, including major
holidays. Mondays are reserved for special programs and rental events.
W e are on track to welcome 45,000 – 50,000 customers this year, more
than double our post pandemic low point of 22,000. Increasingly, our
offerings attract a younger and more diverse audience. In 2024, 174 films
were shown with a total of 2,937 separate screenings.
How many Orange
County residents
does the organization
serve?
The majority of visitors are from Orange County, based on zip codes,
approximately 25,000 - 30,000.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
Please explain how
your organization
ensures diversity,
equity, inclusion, and
accessibility in its
programs and
operations.
At the Chelsea Theater, our mission is grounded in the belief that film is a
powerful vehicle for understanding, empathy, and connection. As Orange
County’s (indeed the entire Triangle’s) only nonprofit art house cinema, we
are committed to ensuring that our programs and operations reflect and
serve the diversity of our community while fostering equity, inclusion, and
accessibility for all.
Programming for All Voices: The Chelsea curates a wide-ranging slate of
films that prioritize cultural, geographic, and artistic diversity. W e screen
works from around the globe, including films by and about historically
marginalized communities—such as people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals,
immigrants, and people with disabilities. From international arthouse
cinema to American independent films and documentaries, we strive to
amplify voices that are too often underrepresented in mainstream media. In
addition, we partner with local organizations and film festivals to co-present
series that explore issues of race, justice, gender, and identity, offering
post-film discussions that create space for dialogue and reflection.
Equitable Access: Our pricing structure includes discounted tickets for
seniors, students, and teachers, and military/first responders to help
ensure that cost is not a barrier to participation. W hen possible, we offer
free community screenings, particularly in connection with local nonprofits,
schools, and civic initiatives. W e seek grant support or underwriting to
extend this access further.
Inclusive Operations: Behind the scenes, we are building a culture of
inclusion within our staff, board, and volunteers. Our hiring practices
prioritize equity, and we continue to assess and improve policies that
support work-life balance and equitable opportunity. The Chelsea’s board of
directors is actively working toward greater demographic and experiential
diversity, recognizing that inclusive leadership strengthens our vision and
impact.
Physical and Programmatic Accessibility: The Chelsea is located in an
ADA-compliant facility with accessible seating, restrooms, and parking. W e
offer closed captioning and assistive listening devices and continue to
upgrade our technology and training to improve these services. Open
caption screenings are held several tims every week.
Community Engagement: W e listen to our audiences. Through audience
surveys, post-film conversations, and collaborative programming, we
remain responsive to the needs and interests of our diverse community.
W e seek out partnerships with local cultural organizations, educators, and
civic groups to broaden the perspectives presented on screen and to
foster an inclusive environment within our theater space.
The Chelsea’s commitment to DEIA is ongoing. W e understand that equity
and inclusion require continual learning, reflection, and action. Through the
universal language of cinema, we aim to build a more just and connected
community.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
During FY25-26, will
your organization
receive operational
support funding from
the North Carolina
Arts Council or the
North Carolina
Department of
Natural and Cultural
Resources?
No
Organization's EIN 824309682
Organization
W ebsite
www.thechelseatheater.org
Authorizing Official's
Name
Emily Kass
Authorizing Official's
Title
Executive Director
Authorizing Official's
Phone
919-929-8428
Authorizing Official's
Email
emily.kass@thechelseatheater.org
Applicant Race W hite
Financial Overview
FinancialOv erv iew_Submittable.xlsx
Organizational Financial Statements
Balance_Sheet_53125.pdf
2025_P_and_L_as_of_53125.pdf
2024.990.pdf
2024_year_end_Profit_and_Loss.pdf
202506272026_DRAFT_BUDGET.pdf
Deficit/Surplus N/A
If the current or next
year budget
represents a 30%
change (or greater)
from the year prior,
please explain why.
N/A
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
Are you an entity of
UNC-Chapel Hill or
another unit of state
government?
No
PROJECT/PROGRAM
INFORMATION
Tell us about your project or program
Title of Grant
Request
General Operating Support
Grant Amount
Requested
$5,000
Is the person in
charge of this
program or project
different from the
Authorizing Official?
No
W hat are you
requesting funding
for?
Operational expense (arts organizations ONLY)
Request Summary Funds are requested to support the following aspects of operations: Film
Acquisition: the booking of diverse films, including first-run releases and
classic and hard to find a films to ensure a rich and engaging selection of
films that align with the theater's mission. Costs include booking,
distribution costs, and screening rights, typically between 35 - 54% of
ticket revenue. Programming: The grant will support costs associated with
curating film programs such as expenses related to film screenings, special
events, guest speakers, and panel discussions. Technology: Maintaining
the projection equipment, including projectors, servers, lamps/bulbs.
Marketing and Advertising: This includes personnel and costs associated
with print advertisements, radio spots, online campaigns, social media and
website. Outreach and Community Engagement: The grant will support
expenses such as organizing partnerships, collaborations, and community
events; and costs associated with hosting educational programs, groups,
and outreach to schools and community organizations. By supporting these
essential areas, the grant will enable the Chelsea to offer diverse
programming, effectively reach and expand our target audiences, engage
with the community, and provide an overall excellent experience for
patrons.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
Organizational Goals The Chelsea Theater’s mission is to entertain, inspire, and engage through
the art of film. Our primary goals include presenting high-quality cinematic
experiences, fostering cultural dialogue, and cultivating community through
diverse and inclusive programming. As such, organizational goals include:
• Curating a wide-ranging film slate, from first-run international features to
repertory and classic films.
• Showcasing independent and regional filmmakers.
• Providing a platform for conversations around urgent topics such as
climate change, racial equity, and the role of the arts in society.
In 2025 - 6, we will continue exploring thematic series such as:
• Decarbonizing the Future – documentaries and panels exploring
environmental problems and solutions.
• The Artist and Society – films spotlighting visual and performing artists,
architects, and designers.
• Culture & Social Justice – stories at the intersection of race, history,
labor, and community resilience.
• W e will expand on annual partnerships such as our Juneteenth program
with the Jackson Center and Northside community. Last year featured
newly recovered footage on Chapel Hill school integration, followed by
powerful intergenerational discussions.
• Our collaborations with the area filmmakers which attract diverse
audiences and enrich cross-cultural dialogue.
This spring, this board held its annual planning retreat. W hile affirming its
commitment to our programming direction, the board focused on
infrastructure needs: planning for the replacement of aging projectors that
are reaching the ends of their useful lives; space for informal education
programs, and office space; expanding educational programs. As such, the
board is concentrating on building and identifying community support with
the intent of holding a fundraising campaign to address these needs.
Thus, we are adding a part-time development coordinator to assist the
director and board in managing our development program.
Your support helps makes it possible for the Chelsea Theater to continue
offering exceptional programming while continuing to expand our reach into
the community.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
How will you
evaluate whether or
not your goals have
been met?
W e use a combination of quantitative and qualitative measures to evaluate
our progress toward organizational goals. These methods help us assess
the reach, relevance, and impact of our programming and operations.
Audience Data & Participation
W e track attendance figures for all screenings and events, with special
attention to participation in thematic series, community partnerships, and
screenings featuring underrepresented voices. W e analyze year-over-year
changes in ticket sales, membership growth, and donor retention to gauge
sustained engagement.
Program Diversity
Each quarter, we assess the diversity of our film offerings across multiple
dimensions—geography, language, subject matter, and filmmaker identity—
to ensure we are curating a representative and inclusive slate. W e also
monitor the balance between first-run, repertory, local, and international
titles.
Community Engagement
W e collect feedback through post-screening discussions, online surveys,
comments book, and informal conversations with audiences and partners.
These responses help us understand what resonates and where there’s
room for growth. For special programs like our Juneteenth partnership or
environmental series, we work closely with collaborators to debrief and
identify outcomes and improvements.
Operational Benchmarks
The Board regularly reviews internal benchmarks such as ticket pricing,
staffing capacity, technology upgrades, and financial sustainability. These
metrics help ensure we are delivering on our mission while maintaining a
strong foundation for future growth.
Ultimately, success means that more people are engaging meaningfully with
film, that our programs reflect and respond to our community, and that the
Chelsea remains a welcoming cultural hub for all.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
How do you promote
and publicize the
work of your
organization?
The Chelsea Theater uses a multi-faceted marketing and publicity approach
to reach current and prospective audiences, build awareness, and promote
community engagement. W e have recently hired a new marketing
coordinator who will be taking a fresh look at all of our strategies and
materials. Meanwhile, our basic tactics are as follows:
On-site Promotion: W e make strategic use of our physical space, including
rotating digital posters in the lobby, pre-show slides featuring upcoming
films and events, and printed brochures or handouts. Our outward-facing
windows feature eye-catching displays to engage passersby at the mall
and invite spontaneous visits.
Online Presence: Our website—revamped in 2023—is a key hub for
audiences to learn about current and upcoming films, special events, and
ways to support the theater. The site is optimized for both desktop and
mobile users and provides direct access to ticket purchasing.
W e maintain an active and growing presence on social media platforms
including Facebook, Instagram, and Letterboxd. These channels are
updated multiple times each week with film highlights, behind-the-scenes
content, audience interaction, and promotions.
Email Marketing: Our weekly email newsletter reaches 9,000 subscribers
with updates on showtimes, programming, and events, along with direct
links to purchase tickets. Additional targeted email campaigns promote
membership, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer opportunities, helping us
convert casual viewers into invested supporters.
Partnerships and Collaborations: W e actively collaborate with local
organizations such as the Jackson Center, Carolina Performing Arts,
American Dance Festival, and Cosmic Rays to co-present films, panels,
and special events. These partnerships not only enrich our programming
but extend our visibility to new audiences through cross-promotion.
Media Outreach: W e share program information with local media outlets
and online event calendars and maintain relationships with local writers
who cover arts and film. W CHL/Chapelboro as an in-kind media sponsor
has boosted our promotional reach. W e also place targeted paid
advertising, as budget allows, in outlets such as W UNC radio, The Indy,
and the annual Newcomers Guide.
Community Engagement and Grassroots Promotion: W e participate in local
festivals, events, and university programs when possible. Collaborations
with area universities include class screenings, internships, and student-
focused programming. W e distribute flyers in high-traffic areas and mail
printed materials to retirement communities and neighborhood centers.
Special Events: W e regularly host filmmaker Q&As, themed screenings,
panel discussions, and previews to generate buzz and deepen audience
engagement. These events are often promoted in collaboration with local
artists, scholars, or partner organizations.
Through these approaches, the Chelsea builds visibility, strengthens
community connections, and drives attendance—ensuring that our mission
and programs reach broad and diverse audiences.
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
Please describe
efforts by your
organization to
generate revenue.
The Chelsea Theater generates revenue through a mix of earned and
contributed income. As a nonprofit, we balance financial sustainability with
a commitment to accessibility and community value.
Earned Income – 52%. Our largest revenue stream is ticket sales. Patrons
purchase tickets for daily screenings and special events, including curated
series and community programs. W e offer standard pricing with discounts
for members, seniors, students/teachers, and first responders. The first
show of the day is always discounted, as is our summer Late Night Series
aimed at younger audiences. W hile a few special events may have
premium pricing, we strive to keep ticket prices affordable and comparable
to other local theaters. However, film distributor fees often claim up to 50%
of ticket revenue.
Concessions and merchandise provide additional earned income.
Concession sales include popcorn, candy, soft drinks, beer, and wine, with
revenue tied directly to audience attendance. W e also offer branded
merchandise—gift cards, T-shirts, hats—and curated film books that add
both revenue and educational value.
Philanthropic support is vital to our operations, comprising, in 2025, 48% of
the operating budget. This includes unrestricted donations, sponsorships,
and membership contributions. Memberships are available year-round, with
monthly renewal reminders and two major campaigns per year.
Contributions can be made online, by mail, or on-site. Since opening in
2018, we have steadily grown our membership base—currently 1,100
active member households—. Many members have increased their giving
levels and made supplemental gifts, underscoring their commitment to the
theater’s future. Another ongoing source of our 10,000 strong email list – a
source for audience, and future member and donor support.
Membership support not only contributes to operating revenue but also
strengthens our community connection, creating a loyal base of advocates
and donors.
W e are currently in the early stages of exploring a capital campaign to fund
new laser projectors. These will replace outdated 2013 models and offer
both improved image quality and significant energy efficiency, reducing
power consumption through laser and LED technology. The need for
additional work and meeting space is also being examined. Staff currently
worked in an attic space that houses the projection equipment and storage.
Our successful 2020 renovation campaign—preceded by the 2018 “Save
the Chelsea” grassroots effort— and continuing membership and donation
growth, demonstrated strong community interest and investment.
Resumes of artists/administrators
Matthew_C._Brown_-_General_Film_Résumé.docx
Emily_Kass_ED_Resume.docx
MimiStockton_2025Resume-1.pdf
Charles_Brownlee_Resume_June_2025_2.pdf
Board of Directors List
BOARD_CONTACT_LIST_as_of_1.docx
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569
IRS Tax Exemption
Chelsea_Art_Theater_501c3_letter_of_determination.pdf
W ork Samples
poster-11x17-ChelseaClassics-2025-FINAL_2.pdf
Title of work Chelsea Classics 2025
Artist's name multiple
Year created 2025
Medium (if applicable) film
Newsletter.pdf
Title of work W eekly Newsletter
Artist's name various
Year created Spring 2025
Medium (if applicable) weekly newsletter is circulated to 8000
Newsletter_example.pdf
Title of work weekly newsletter
Artist's name Various
Year created 2025
Medium (if applicable) newsletter circulates to 8,000
Video Sample:
External Link 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/12Ebo-
U49YymHHr_hE3fdceMFAvaQzkOV/view
Video Sample:
External Link 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EC8LOFGgbnuMqhebkqy8-wMzIB9m9-
S0/view
Video Sample:
External Link 3
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PY_W 0JblW OjH3fV-9yg-
m7GumN_XgtEk/view
Letters of support
(optional)
Logo and tagline
usage
checked
Unallowable
Expenses
checked
Docusign Envelope ID: D6DEE171-391E-468D-8E46-8B165027A569