In a statement, Murphy Davis, one of the Artistic Directors of the theater, comments, "It is a major expense each year to rent the current space, the Riverhead shop where we build the sets and the rent for our actors and production crew each summer. The combined total is going to be up to $500,000 a year just in rents."

Bay Street Theatre refutes reports that it is closing its doors. However, it is soliciting tax deductible contributions, which go towards the theater's mission to "entertain, inspire and enhance the cultural arts for the East End and beyond."

Donations can be made by sending a check to Bay Street Theater, PO Box 810, Sag Harbor NY 11963 or online at www.baystreet.org.