The Theatre Development Fund has reduced its staff size after the nonprofit organization had to cope with the closure of Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters.
The organization, a service organization that provides educational programs and discount tickets to theatergoers through TDF membership and the TKTS booths, has laid off temporary and part-time workers, and it has reduced pay for full-time employees, the organization announced in an email sent to members Friday.
The organization makes the majority of its money through its TKTS booths and TDF ticket membership programs, both of which are on hold as theaters are closed.
“The bulk of our expenses, including our education and access programs, are supported predominantly by the per-ticket service charge from the TKTS booths, and handling fees from our membership program,” the email reads. “The closure of performance venues has shut down our biggest streams of revenue.”
The organization did not immediately respond to a request for comment on how many workers were affected by the layoffs.
TDF said it may have to take “more drastic measures” if the shutdown extends beyond its current projected end date of April 12.
“We are doing what we must to survive this difficult period so we can be there for you when the theatres reopen,” the email reads.
The TDF board of directors has also canceled the organization’s annual gala. Originally scheduled for March 23 this year, the gala is TDF’s largest fundraising event, according to the email.
