Sequim: Olympic Theatre Arts moves on to fundraising effort

SEQUIM — Elaine Caldwell is looking to raise money — and passion.

After three years away from Olympic Theatre Arts’ expansion project, she’s back with a vengeance.

“We need to reignite this community to what live theater is all about,” said Caldwell, who as Phase III campaign manager is leading OTA’s effort to raise $800,000 for a renovated theater.

Phase I was the purchase of OTA’s building, the 1929 Methodist church at 414 N. Sequim Ave.

OTA bought the place from the Boys & Girls Club for $215,000, after raising the $47,000 down payment in less than two weeks, Caldwell said.

But on the way to Phase II, disagreements and communication breakdowns slowed progress, said Tracy Williams, president of OTA’s board.

“There was a really bad misunderstanding. Some members felt we were going to lose our theater aspect. There was a lot of miscommunication, and a lot of feelings hurt,” Williams said.

That was last summer.

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