Glenside’s “The Royal” launched on September 18, 2021 as a for-profit partnership between Jerry Clarke and Bridgett Gordon.
The music venue has recently announced plans to incorporate as a nonprofit venture that draws from, and gives back to, our community. Renamed “The Royal Music & Arts Center” (RMAC), the change allows the venue to apply for grants, seek tax-deductible donations, and pursue sponsorships while broadening their role in the local and regional arts community.
As a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable entity, subsidies will allow RMAC the flexibility to keep ticket prices affordable while still compensating artists fairly, offer community-based events.
RMAC plans to offer membership packages that will include “member-only” perks, such as early ticket purchase, discounts, preferred seating and more. It also plans to expand food and beverage options. To reduce costs further, and to increase community involvement, many of the tasks involved in day-to-day operations will be assumed by members of the Board of Directors and a team of volunteers.
“Essentially, we want to build a home for performers and people who want to get out and enjoy live music,” Gordon said. “This change will take the pressure off of the public and the musicians. It’s a lot of work, and we’ve gotten a great response. We already have some donations coming in, and we’re really hopeful. We have a long way to go.”
To kick-start the transition, RMAC has launched an initial Fund Drive which aims to raise $25,000 by December 31, 2022. The funds will be earmarked for expenses incurred during the transition, including lease renewal, facility maintenance, and day-to-day operations.
While technically still an LLC, donations going forward will be tax deductible for investors.
To assist in the transition, RMAC has appointed an initial board, and is seeking volunteers to handle setup, tickets, and concessions during shows, identify local businesses looking to sponsor events, offer talents in marketing and publicity, and more.
“We want people who want to be involved,” Gordon said. “That includes our board. The current members are just a starting point.”
Checks can be made payable to “The Royal Music & Arts Center, Inc.” Electronic Transactions are also accepted through Venmo @theroyalglenside or PayPal via linktr.ee/theroyalglenside. Please use note “RMAC DRIVE” when submitting payment.
To become a Royal Volunteer, click here. Questions and ideas can be submitted by email to info@theroyalglenside.com or by phone at 610-220-2071. For more information about The Royal, you can visit their website here.
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