I think it is a prime example of how the trickle economics affects everyone. Unfortunately, all arts programs are in jeopardy of losing income. The timing was obviously not that great, however would it ever be in that situation. The cast is obviously loyal to the director and respect his work, dedication and efforts to this theatre. If money is that tight for them, maybe they should go dark for a year and do some fundraising to stay afloat. Like any corporation (profit or non) in this economy, you need to cut corners to stay alive.  It is even more difficult when the theatre is a tight knit family.  Best of luck to all of us tying a knot on the end of our rope to hang in there.

"Beck's salary that year was $96,969, the playhouse's second-highest. Schmad's was $125,000, plus a leased car. Collins was not listed among the top five earners."

Sorry, but as someone directing for free I can't really relate to this. Couldn't they solve the problem by keeping both of them at, say, sixty grand each?