Like the song from the show, James Blackman says, “we’re in the money” again!

REDONDO BEACH, CA – Attorneys for the estate of Peter and Eva Tramboff of Torrance, Calif., presented a check for $207,966.73 to James A Blackman III, executive director of the Civic Light Opera of South Bay Cities, on May 5, closing weekend of the CLOSBC’s 15th anniversary performance of the classic musical 42nd Street.

The gift, which represents 45% of the Tramboff Trust Estate, was prepared by the law firm of Simon and Palmer and the check was presented privately by a member of their staff and estate planner Judy E. Marvin at the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center Friday evening.

The Tramboff’s were longtime supporters of the arts and this special recognition signifies the CLOSBC’s rise to prominence in the community. Although the last few years have been financially challenging, this year has seen a sudden increase in donations. Blackman and the Board of Directors see an upswing in the support of the arts.

“It is one thing to win the Ovation Award for Best Musical three times, but receiving a gift of over $200,000 is like winning the lottery,” says Blackman. “We at the CLOSBC are truly blessed to have created this for all the people of South Bay who have been most generous, kind and supportive for 15 years. “This gift recommits the CLOSBC to continue to bring first class Broadway style professional theatre to all the people we serve,” adds Blackman.

“Receiving this gift elevates even further our belief in the Civic Light Opera of South Bay Cities and James Blackman,” says Cathy Hendrickson, president of Bay Cities National Bank and vice president of the CLOSBC Board of Directors. “The value of the CLOSBC to the community grows each year,” adds Hendrickson.

PHOTO BY: ED KRIEGER