Patron Survey Insights

by Michael Paul Hirsch, Executive Director Over the past year, hundreds of SBMT patrons shared what they value most, and their responses are directly shaping our upcoming seasons and audience experience. I thought I would share a few interesting insights. Our core audience continues to be local, long-time supporters, while our fastest-growing segment is a younger, more diverse community. This is why we are expanding outreach to schools, senior communities, and local service organizations, to ensure SBMT remains welcoming, relevant, and reflective of the South Bay. The vast majority of you come to see all of the main stage productions [...]

by Michael Paul Hirsch, Executive Director I am no soothsayer or diviner, but I am empathetic and perceptive enough to sense a shift carrying us toward a far more optimistic trajectory in 2026. From my discussions with you in the lobby of the theater, I know you feel it too. Last week, Doug Hughes, our Marketing Director, wrote about reflecting on SBMT’s remarkable 2025. This week, I thought I would talk a bit about what is to come in the New Year and why I am feeling so hopeful. First off, the obvious: the season we are actively producing is [...]