Community rallies to support El Campanil Theatre as fundraising effort surpasses $50,000 goal
411 donations received to Keep the Arts Alive in Antioch; Dance Gala benefit April 18
By Sharon Sobel Idul, Board President, El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation
As announced at the Antioch City Council meeting, last night, March 24, 2026, the El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation’s recent GoFundMe campaign has not only reached, but exceeded, its $50,000 fundraising goal.
The Keep the Arts Alive in Antioch campaign was launched in late fall to supplement the 2026 operating costs of the historic El Campanil Theatre. The El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation extends heartfelt gratitude to every donor and supporter who made the campaign’s success possible and invites the community to continue being part of this important work.
As of March 25, 2026, a total of $65,190 has been raised from 411 gifts.
“This achievement is a testament to how much El Campanil Theatre means to our community,” said Sharon Sobel Idul, Board President. “The overwhelming support shows that people believe in preserving this historic venue and ensuring it continues to serve as a home for the arts for generations to come. The work is not done and we’ll continue to apply for grants and diversify our programming, but we are elated to see a renewed sense of excitement and energy around this theatre,” Idul said.
Building on this momentum, El Campanil Theatre and Black Diamond Ballet invites the community to attend our upcoming benefit, City of Stars – A Dance Gala to Keep the Arts Thriving in Antioch, in collaboration with Black Diamond Ballet, Saturday, April 18th. Proceeds will benefit El Campanil Theatre to ensure a vibrant hub for future performances, concerts, dance, and community events for many years to come.
For more information about El Campanil Theatre and tickets to City of Stars and all other upcoming events, please visit www.ElCampanilTheatre.com or contact our box office at 925-757-9500.
While monthly donations provide the most sustainable support, one-time gifts are just as impactful and play a critical role in maintaining this historic theatre, funding new productions, and expanding arts access across East Contra Costa County. Continued contributions are welcome.
How to Help:
● Visit donate.elcampaniltheatre.com
● Choose “Monthly” for sustainable support
● Or choose “One-Time” to make an immediate impact
● Share the link with friends, family and neighbors
El Campanil Theatre is an asset to the community and has stood as long as it has because of community support. By becoming a recurring donor or by making a generous one-time gift, you ensure that the crown gem of Antioch continues to inspire audiences and nurture creativity for generations to come.
The theater is located at 602 W 2nd Street in Antioch’s historic, downtown Rivertown district.
About El Campanil Theatre Preservation Foundation
The El Campanil Preservation Foundation is the nonprofit organization dedicated to maintaining and operating El Campanil Theatre, a historic performing arts venue in downtown Antioch, California. Originally opened in 1928, the theatre is a cherished cultural landmark presenting live performances, films, and educational programs for audiences of all ages. The Foundation relies on community donations to preserve this beloved institution and keep the arts thriving in East Contra Costa County.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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