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BACKGROUND The Firehouse Arts Center opened in September of 2010. At that time, the Civic Arts Division staff determined that a relationship with a professional theater company would serve to enhance programming. A relationship was developed with Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre (PCRT) and in January 2011, PCRT produced their first show in the Firehouse Arts Center. In 2013, City staff conducted a Request for Proposal for a theatrical production company and PCRT was recommended by the screening committee and the Civic Arts Commission. A five year contract was approved by City Council. This contract is set to expire in June 2018. In October 2017, a Request for Proposal for a theatrical production company was distributed and one company responded. The minimum criteria established in the RFP was not met and the company was disqualified. Staff then distributed a Request for Qualifications for a theatrical production company at that time and two companies responded—Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre and Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre. A screening committee consisting of two Civic Arts Commissioners and City Staff reviewed written proposals and financial information and conducted interviews of both companies. Although the screening committee acknowledged the strong production value of the shows produced by PCRT over the past few years, they unanimously voted to recommend the Tri- Valley Repertory Theatre (TVRT) as the City's new provider of theatrical production services. The screening committee's decision was based upon several factors, including: • TVRT's long standing experience working in Pleasanton and the Tri-Valley as a Pleasanton based business; • The commitment by TVRT to focus on diversity in casting and shows produced; • TVRT's 34 years of experience producing shows that built a loyal and strong fan base that trusts their product; • TVRT does not require additional rehearsal space, thereby freeing up currently used rehearsal space for revenue generating programming; and • The ability for TVRT to build all of their sets off-site as there is no building space available at the Firehouse Arts Center. The screening committee felt strongly that the Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre would not only continue the excellent level of theater that the community has come to expect, but with their knowledge of theater, the City's program would continue to grow and the experiences for the community would be enriched. DISCUSSION Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation—a volunteer organization dedicated to providing affordable quality theatre, theatrical training, a showcase for talent, and a cultural experience within the Tri-Valley and East Bay communities. TVRT is currently in their 34th year of providing professional quality musical theater and in their 28th year of providing a true community chorus. Attendance at their various productions exceeds 12,000 people annually. Page 2 of 3