Date: December 29, 2024, 10:45h. 

Last Updated: December 29, 2024, 10:45h.

Troy Heard had a feeling something was wrong when he entered the Majestic, a Las Vegas community theater where he serves as artistic manager. Heard had securely locked the door before leaving on Christmas Eve.

Upon returning on Christmas Day to wrap a gift for his stage manager, Heard discovered that $10K worth of stage equipment, including a soundboard, computers, and music gear, had been stolen. Similar burglaries have targeted four other small businesses in the Arts District recently.

Heard promptly contacted Las Vegas police, but their response was not immediate. Despite waiting for hours, they failed to show up. He filed a report the following day.

The Majestic, a repertory theater located in downtown Las Vegas’ Arts District, heavily relies on community donations to produce 5-10 low-budget plays and musicals annually from local producers and writers. Due to budget restrictions, they did not have theft insurance.

Considering the theft jeopardized the upcoming production of John Van Druten’s “Cabaret” scheduled to open on January 16, Heard hesitated to seek further donations. However, the overwhelming response from both regular Las Vegas patrons and sympathetic individuals nationwide convinced him to create a GoFundMe page.

The rapid influx of donations amazed Heard, who described it as a “Christmas miracle.”

Initially closing the fundraiser after meeting the $10K target within 24 hours, Heard decided to reopen it when more people expressed their desire to contribute. Currently, the total donations amount to over $19K from 180 donors, which will be utilized for theater improvements.

“We are incredibly thankful for the love and support shown by our fans and community, and we look forward to reciprocating the gesture,” said Heard.

To make a donation, click here.