Theatre Issues Statement Regarding Michael Moore

Midland operators have a different viewpoint and provided Pollstar with the following statement:

The Midland Theatre is proud of the wide variety of artistic shows that play on its stage each year and welcomes diverse audiences from all over Central Ohio. The business arrangement of renting The Midland Theatre for Mr. Moore’s shows did not work out satisfactorily for either party. In mid-September a talent agency initially inquired about renting The Midland Theatre for two public shows. The agency representatives were greeted with courtesy by theatre staff as any business would treat a potential customer. A number of communications were exchanged as the agency considered multiple venue options and theatre management learned more details about the show, in order to estimate the show’s requirements and establish expectations. The Midland Theatre never reached an agreement to rent the theatre to Michael Moore or his agency. After more details were discussed, the theatre declined to present Mr. Moore’s show, and no contract was offered nor agreed upon.

A combination of factors led to the theatre’s decision to decline the rental request, and theatre management believes the decision was in the best interest of the theatre.  A chief concern was the short timeframe, which affects not only the promoter’s potential to attract a full audience but also the venue’s ability to properly plan logistics including staffing (technical production, ushers, security, etc.), necessary equipment, expenses, and more. The theatre typically prefers six to eight weeks advanced notice to fully plan and prepare for a show. The film component of the show was an especially complicating factor, because the theatre facility is not ideally set up for filming. Also, the board of directors had typical questions about the theatre’s involvement and portrayal in the film as it would be published and promoted in the future. The board was uncertain if there was adequate time to consider legal questions about licensing, liability, etc. Theatre management also had questions about potential controversy and the potential for disruptive events to occur inside or outside the theatre that could negatively affect the theatre and other Newark businesses and residents, due to the current political climate. Again, there was concern about having adequate time to fully consider the potential risks and benefits for The Midland Theatre organization and the community.

The Midland Theatre respects Mr. Moore’s right to perform and wishes him great success in his mission to motivate Ohioans to vote in the upcoming election.