In 2013, under the direction of John Walcutt, SOC entered into a Facility Usage Agreement with the City for operation of the Strawberry Bowl Festival Amphitheater, for the months of May through September. Part of that Agreement provides for a City subsidy of $20,000 annually to subsidize the performance of Shakespeare. 

This Programming Funding Agreement is a partner Agreement to the City Council's consideration of the Facility Usage Agreement with LFA.  Upon approval of the LFA Agreement, the City would terminate its relationship with SOC and require that SOC enter into a new Sub-Lease with LFA.  This Agreement would continue to provide the City's current $20,000 subsidy to SOC. The Agreement would require that during the months of May 1 through September 30 of each year, SOC produce a minimum of two (2) full theatrical productions, with a minimum of 24 performance dates, 18 of which must be Shakespeare.

To be eligible for reimbursement, costs must be necessary and reasonable and must be adequately documented.  Allowable costs would include production/event materials, office supplies, marketing materials and minor equipment deemed viable for the production of performances.  Unallowable costs would include such things as coffee, bottled water, or any other beverages, food items and the costs of fundraising.  As in the existing SOC Agreement, at the end of each calendar year, SOC will provide a financial and performance report covering the prior programming year and must maintain their non-profit status in good standing for the Agreement to be in effect.

There is no impact to the General Fund. At present, the City's $20,000 contribution to SOC would continue to be paid out of the Cultural Arts Fund, which has adequate funds. This appropriation was included in the current budget year.

It is recommended that the City Council:

• Approve a Programming Funding Agreement between the City and Shakespeare Orange County for the continued production of Shakespeare at Strawberry Bowl Festival Amphitheater; and

• Authorize the City Manager to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City.