“Very clever!” Mr. Miller nodded thoughtfully. “Very clever indeed!”
“Yes, but there’s one other little thing,” Richard added. “It was also decided, in order to squelch any rumors or new questions, that this theater will operate on a non-profit basis.”
“We are now a non-profit organization?” Chuck asked slowly.
“We are indeed,” Richard replied. “Any money left over at the end of the season, after expenses, goes to the Kenabeek High School toward their new science lab.”
“Well!” Chuck exclaimed, looking perfectly blank.
“Oh, what a pity!” Rita cried. “Then you two won’t make any money this summer!” She knew that Chuck and Richard were working for nothing beyond their living expenses. They weren’t even on regular salaries like the rest of the company. Every penny would be poured back into the theater to pay back the Chamber of Commerce and the individual investors.
Chuck laughed. “I had hoped to have something left over at the end of the season, but I can’t imagine that we need the profits as much as the school does. Actually, I’m glad about this arrangement!”
“There probably won’t be too much left over, anyway,” Richard added. “Did you ever hear of a summer theater making a real profit on a first season? I agree with Chuck. We just want to have a season successful enough to warrant a return next year.”
“We won’t have a season this year if we don’t get back to work!” Chuck declared. “We have a lot to clean up today. Places for the second act, everybody, Scene Two.”
“Congratulations, Richard,” Peggy said as she took a seat in the auditorium. She had some time before she was due on stage, and she wanted to watch the other actors. “I think you did a wonderful job!”