EXIT Theatre

EXIT Theatre is a prominent performing arts organization based in California, with theaters in San Francisco and Arcata. Founded in 1983 by Artistic Director Christina Augello, the organization began with a unique performance in the lobby of a residential hotel in the Tenderloin district, involving a diverse group of performers including retired vaudevillians, young method actors, and local residents. For over 40 years, EXIT Theatre's mission has remained steadfast: to provide a platform for artists to showcase their work and to cultivate an audience for their performances. The organization supports artists by commissioning and producing new works, offering production support, and providing low-cost theater rentals. It also produces performance festivals that cater to both local and touring artists. EXIT Theatre's commitment to the arts has been recognized by the local alternative press, which has honored the theater with titles such as Best Local Venue, Best 3,000 miles Off-Broadway Theater, and Best Off-Beat Theatre. Additionally, Christina Augello has been acknowledged for her contributions to the theater community with accolades such as Best Producer and Working Woman of the Year. EXIT Theatre's programming is diverse and includes new works, reimagined classics, and experimental performances. The theater also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including magic shows, burlesque, improv, and storytelling events, inviting audiences to experience the unconventional side of the performing arts. Christina Augello, the founder and artistic director, has a rich history in American theater. Her journey began in the 1950s as the daughter of a theater saloon and piano bar owner in Buffalo's theater district. She has been involved in theater for over five decades, performing in various venues and founding several theater-related organizations. Her dedication to independent theater is evident in her establishment of EXIT Theatre, the San Francisco Fringe Festival, DIVAfest, and co-founding FRIGID New York. Richard Livingston serves as the managing director of EXIT Theatre. With a background in directing innovative non-profit organizations in San Francisco, he brings over 50 years of experience to the role. His contributions to community development and advocacy, particularly in the Tenderloin neighborhood, have earned him the Daniel Koshland Civic Unity Award from the San Francisco Foundation. EXIT Theatre is governed by a Board of Directors, which includes Geoffrey Link as President, alongside Christina Augello, Chris Harrison, Steven Lieberman, Richard Livingston, Sharon Walton, and Carmen White. Financially, EXIT Theatre operates as a nonprofit tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service. The organization's funding comes from a mix of artist and volunteer support, earned income from ticket sales, theater rentals, concessions, and contributions from individuals, government, foundations, and corporations. Donations to EXIT Theatre are tax-deductible under Federal and State laws. For further information or to support EXIT Theatre, interested parties can contact the organization at its mailing address in Arcata, California, or reach out to Christina Augello directly via the provided email and phone number. EXIT Theatre also encourages support through secure tax-deductible donations, which can be made to support independent theater.