"There's really no overstating how central this organization has been to the cultural life of the Bay Area, or how much joy and enlightenment it has given us over the years." — San Francisco Chronicle

As the 100th anniversary of Cal Performances approached, the Board of Trustees set out to assess what is needed to sustain and improve programs and facilities to continually better serve our audiences into this next century. A strategic planning process culminated in the identification of three organizational priorities:

1. Improve Zellerbach Hall to enhance the experience for performers and audiences;
2. Establish a Creative Venture Fund to strengthen our capacity to present, produce, and commission ambitious projects;
3. Increase the Endowment to ensure a solid foundation of operating support for ongoing performance and educational programs.

The $15 million Centennial Campaign for Cal Performances is centered on these priorities. Early leadership gifts and pledges raised $11 million, and on May 11, 2006 the campaign was publicly announced at the Centennial Gala for Cal Performances. Since that time, generous gifts have lifted us to over $14 million. One of those gifts is a challenge grant of $800,000 from The Kresge Foundation, which we will receive only if we raise at least $1 million more by January of 2008. This is an exciting opportunity for our friends and patrons to step forward and acknowledge the importance of Cal Performances within the UC Berkeley and broader community.

The campaign has been conducted with the advice and leadership of a dedicated Committee of long-time Cal Performances patrons and donors, with an Honorary Committee of world-renowned artists lending its support.

We welcome an opportunity to tell you more about this exciting initiative, and the different ways you can participate.

To discuss your interest or learn more, please contact Deborah Parker, Centennial Campaign Manager, 510.642.7837 or email dparkercalperfs.berkeley.edu.