Centerstage Theatre may close its doors because the city of Federal Way, who owns the property, would not renew the lease with Centerstage (they extended the lease for three months but the future is unclear beyond that). Alan Bryce made the sad announcement on May 22 after the evening performance of “For All That,” a profound and moving play.

Questions abound regarding the city’s refusal to renew Centerstage’s lease. Does the city of Federal Way intend to sell that property? Does the council choose to eliminate this venue because of the new Performing Arts and Conference Center? Does the city have a plan to lease the property to some other business?

Centerstage Theatre has served the community for 39 years and it has provided theatrical experiences for a wide audience. The loss of Centerstage ensures that affordable entertainment of this kind will be gone.

With the possibility of the Performing Arts and Conference Center approaching $80 million (as a matter of public record on Oct. 2, 2008, Deputy Mayor Jeanne Burbidge projected $60 million for a performing arts center) when all is totaled most small organizations will not be able to afford the rental fees.

Centerstage is another small business that is being shut out. This means also a loss of employment opportunities and exposure for young and local theatrical talent.

What has happened to society that big is better and new is so sought after?

Why can the City Council drive such a financial debt without the vote of its constituency?

Pam Fadlovich, Federal Way