Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who owns the Sebastiani Theatre building?
Sebastiani Building Investors, LLC, a private real estate investment group in the East Bay.
2. Have you made offers to buy the building?
Yes, on more than one occasion. However, the owners were not willing to sell at those times.
3. What is the lease arrangement?
We have a 25-year lease with an option for 25 more years. The lease was signed on December 26, 2016.
We also have the right of first refusal for purchase of the building.
4. What is the relationship between the Foundation and the Theatre business?
In 2008, the Sebastiani Theatre Foundation was formed as a 501 c 3 non-profit.
In December 2019, the Foundation purchased the business from the Rhoten’s.
Roger Rhoten serves as the Executive Director and Tony Ginesi as General Manager.
5. Is the foundation insured?
Yes.
6. When will you have a completed design, schedule and time frame?
The City of Sonoma Planning Commission approved our Use Permit application on November 16, 2023.
Since then, we have proceeded with the design development phase to produce detailed drawings.
Once the drawings are completed, we will choose a contractor and submit to the City for a Building Permit.
7. Will the campaign roll-out in phases or all at once?
We intend to raise the necessary funds for the entire proposed project. However, depending on the circumstances, we may phase
the project in order to start the renovation of the historic Theatre which includes the ADA requirements needed to be
compliant with the lease, including additional bathrooms.
8. When will you begin the official launch of the campaign?
We are currently in the quiet phase of the campaign, raising leadership gifts from the community while completing the
working drawings to determine the total cost of the project.
9. Will the Theatre be open during construction?
Our plan is to have the Theatre open as much as possible during the outside construction.
There will be times that we must be closed during the inside renovation. Contingency plans will be made.
10. How much do you need to raise?
This is to be determined. Our capital campaign budget will be finalized once we have considered our hard and soft cost
expenditures and have received bids from our selected contractors.
11. Has anyone made large gifts toward the Capital Campaign?
Yes, to date we have gained the early support of a few generous donors, in leadership pledges and gifts.
12. What is the structure of the capital campaign committee?
Please refer to our capital campaign leadership document which includes all those involved in leading and supporting
our renovation and expansion project.
13. Will the Theatre continue to have a performing arts program for children?
Yes, absolutely, and we plan to expand the youth programs.
14. What plans do you have for parking?
We may lose 2 parking spaces because of access requirements of the Sonoma Fire Department.
15. What naming possibilities do you have for large donors?
There will be naming opportunities in our fundraising strategy that we will share upon request.