In an effort to ensure the long-term viability of its mission, Catalyst Theater Company is announcing that it is temporarily suspending production activities in order to focus on strategic planning and fund raising.

The 2008-2009 season marked Catalyst’s first at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Its inaugural production at the Atlas, 1984, recently received a Helen Hayes Award for sound design as well as nominations for scenic and lighting design. In addition, while moving into the 150 seat Sprenger theater, Catalyst continued it’s across-the-board $10 ticket policy, the first such pricing policy among Washington’s professional theaters.

Over its eight seasons, Catalyst has built a loyal and diverse fan base with innovative production of seldom or never before seen plays, while offering those productions to the public for the best price in town. However, after a round of budget cuts and difficult decision-making, Catalyst will suspend activities to focus on strategic planning and fundraising. Accordingly, the season’s final production, the premiere of Bruise Easy, will not be produced as scheduled.

Artistic Director Scott Fortier said, "We are among the many theaters and individual artists across the country that are struggling because of the economic downturn. I have confidence that with our focused efforts Catalyst will return to producing soon." The economy is of particular importance because charitable giving funds the vast majority of Catalyst’s budget, particularly given Catalyst’s $10 ticket policy.

Fortier added, "As an artist and the company's founder, this was an incredibly difficult decision. I appreciate the time and excitement that Catalyst supporters have invested in the company and I look forward to seeing them at the theater soon."