The Road Back: So Much Gratitude

Managing Director Sara Young reflects on art, gratitude and how APT’s audience moves us forward.

The week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, I was in the office signing thank you letters for contributions to APT’s annual fundraising campaign. There were piles of them. In all amounts. It was overwhelming, and I was overcome with gratitude for this community we’ve built together.

Before we get too far into the new year, I just want to look back one more time and thank you – all of you – for the success of the 2023 APT season. Not just from me, but also from Brenda and everyone at APT. I know I’ve said this to you many times in many forms, and every time, my words fall short of expressing how important you are to us. So here again is my heart-felt attempt to translate feelings to words.

When Brenda and I talk about how special the APT audience is, the concept of confidence often comes up. Your confidence in what we do keeps us going.

You give us confidence that these plays matter and that telling these great stories lifts us up.

You give us confidence that being curious and open to ideas still holds value in the din of a divisive society.

You give us confidence by trusting us with your time and resources, whether it’s by buying a ticket, or giving a contribution, or even simply reading this newsletter.

You give us confidence by understanding that coming to APT is an adventure, and that it’s okay – maybe even a bonus – that we’re off the beaten path.

You give us confidence by showing up and getting yourself to the top of the Hill, or to the Touchstone. Because some things simply can’t be delivered to your desktop or your streamed to your phone. Some experiences must be shared by live humans, together.

The end of the calendar year is also the end of APT’s fiscal year. I’m happy to report that we made and surpassed our fundraising goal. We’ll move into our 45th anniversary season confident that you are right by our side, and for that we couldn’t be more grateful.

"I can no other answer make but thanks, and thanks, and ever thanks…"*

*also not original, but one of my favorites (Twelfth Night)