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Bidding Big for Bucyrus Little Theatre: Join Our Second Annual Silent Auction

Second Annual Basket Fundraiser | Blog Post | Bucyrus Little Theatre
Silent Auction Discussion | No Small Parts Podcast | Bucyrus Little Theatre

Board President Abbey Kanellakis Discusses The Second Annual Christmas Basket Fundraiser On This Episode Of No Small Parts, The Community Theatre Podcast


The stage lights at Bucyrus Little Theatre (BLT) are about to shine brighter ... thanks to you. This December, we’re launching our upgraded Second Annual Christmas Basket Fundraiser, running online from December 8–16, with live promotion during our hilarious holiday production, Christmas Belles (December 12–14).


What started as a last-minute raffle last year has evolved into a full-scale, community-powered fundraiser, and we need your help to make it even bigger.


Why a Silent Auction? A Smarter Way to Give

Last year’s raffle was a runaway success, but it came with challenges: limited lobby space, youth-heavy shows, and baskets that deserved a wider audience. This year, we’ve partnered with Castle Auctions and Appraisals to take it online, opening the event to the entire community, not just show attendees.


Listen To The Full Episode Now!


Modern Woodmen of America will sponsor this year's Christmas Basket Raffle in support of Bucyrus Little Theatre and will match funds up to $1,500.

Key Upgrades This Year:

  • Fully digital platform with real-time bidding and outbid alerts

  • QR codes in the lobby and program for instant access during Christmas Belles

  • Professional facilitation by Castle Auctions (donating time, software, and pickup/delivery)

  • Dollar-for-dollar matching up to $1,500 from Modern Woodmen of America


Castle Auctions & Appraisals will sponsor this year's Christmas Basket Raffle to support Bucyrus Little Theatre.

What We Raised Last Year—and What’s Possible Now

Thanks to generous local businesses, crafters, and supporters, last year’s raffle helped the theatre make incredible upgrades:

  • A new washer and dryer for costumes

  • A stunning entrance awning that welcomes every guest in style

This year? We’re aiming higher.


Funds Will Support Critical Tech Upgrades:

  • Digital signage (indoor/outdoor) to boost visibility and event awareness.

  • Upgraded sound system with house monitors.

  • New lighting instruments to add color, mood, and storytelling depth.

  • Projection and tech enhancements to match our growing creative vision.

“We’re a small theater with big dreams, and the right tools let our performers and stories shine.” – Abbey Kanellakis, BLT Board President

How You Can Be a Part of It: Donate by November 24

Whether you’re a business, nonprofit, artisan, or individual, your donation (big or small) makes a difference. Every item becomes part of a themed basket, auctioned online, with proceeds doubled by matching funds.


Donation Ideas That Wow:

  • Themed gift baskets (movie night, cozy winter, local flavor, etc.)

  • Gift certificates from restaurants, salons, or services

  • Handcrafted items (art, jewelry, quilts, woodwork)

  • Experiences (photo sessions, raceway passes, behind-the-scenes tours)

  • Branded swag (t-shirts, mugs, Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival gear)

  • Tech & appliances (last year: a full computer!)

  • Cash contributions to enhance baskets


Can’t assemble a basket? No problem. Donate individual items and we’ll handle the rest.


Get Recognized: Promotion That Gives Back

Your support doesn’t go unnoticed. Every donor receives:

  • Shoutouts on social media (via MonsterVox Productions)

  • Listing on the auction site and in the Christmas Belles program

  • Tax-deductible receipt (BLT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit)

  • Brand amplification to thousands of local theater lovers


For small businesses and crafters especially, this is low-cost, high-impact marketing and a chance to be championed by a growing arts hub.


Ready to Donate? Here’s How

Deadline: Sunday, November 24. We’ll pick up your donation—no need to deliver.


Contact Options:


Let’s Build Something Beautiful, Together

This isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s a community collaboration, where your generosity powers live theater, supports local talent, and keeps the curtain rising in Crawford County.


Donate today. Be the reason the next actor’s line is heard clearly. Be the spark behind the next jaw-dropping light cue. Be a part of No Small Parts.



See you at the auction—and under the mistletoe at Christmas Belles!

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