Players Ring Company

The Players Ring Company is a U.S. nonprofit organization headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It is designated as a 501(c)(3) organization, classified under the categories of arts, culture, and humanities/theater within the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE).

Overview

Founded in 1992, the organization operates a uniquely intimate, historic theatre in Portsmouth's South End. The theatre is situated on the traditional ancestral homeland of the Abenaki, Pennacook, and Wabanaki Peoples. The Players Ring acknowledges and honors this heritage, emphasizing its role in fostering creative freedom and engaging the local artist community.

Mission and Activities

The organization's mission includes the production of original works, contemporary plays, and original interpretations of classic plays. This variety of genres and stories aims to spark joy, provoke reflection, and inspire empathy among audiences. The Players Ring promotes the efforts of local actors, directors, playwrights, and technicians, providing a platform for over 200 creatives involved in theatrical productions.

Financials

As of the fiscal year ending December 2023, the organization's revenue was primarily derived from program services, amounting to $188,628 (74.2% of total revenue), followed by contributions totaling $61,150 (24.1%). Other sources included investment income and miscellaneous revenues. Expenses were largely attributed to other salaries and wages, which accounted for 25.3% of total expenses.

The Players Ring received significant grants from entities such as the Fidelity Investments Charitable Gift Fund and The Eppes-Jefferson Foundation, which supported its general operations and specific projects.

Governance and Compensation

The organization's leadership includes key figures such as Barbara L. Newton, Joel Plagenz, Michael Pomp, Dean Plager, and others, none of whom receive compensation for their roles. This structure underscores the organization's commitment to a volunteer-based governance model.

Ratings and Recognition

The Players Ring Company has earned a rating of 3 out of 4 stars from Charity Navigator, indicating a fair level of transparency and accountability in its operations. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible, reflecting its compliance with U.S. tax regulations for charitable organizations. Despite relying heavily on ticket sales, which cover only about 62% of costs, the organization continues to develop its programs and infrastructure with the support of donations and grants.