Financial reality hits Stage West

[TexasStooge]

By Mark Lowry, Star-Telegram Staff Writer

Stage West, one of North Texas' best-known theaters, has laid off its entire staff and is losing its signature arena-style venue near Texas Christian University, its home of 10 years.

But the art, Stage West founder Jerry Russell insists, will not die.

Stage West has put the building up for sale to reduce the theater's debt, which is about $300,000, Russell said. The group is looking for a smaller venue for its 2003-04 season and plans to hire staff on a contract basis.