Senator Jacobs, Council Member Feroleto Offer Reward for Stolen Shakespeare in the Park Equipment

BUFFALO, N.Y. (July 5, 2017) – On Wednesday, July 5th, 2017, Buffalo Delaware District Council Member Joel Feroleto and New York State Senator Chris Jacobs announced a $1,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of theater equipment that was stolen from Shakespeare in Delaware Park over the weekend.  The reward has been personally established by the Senator and Councilman.  No taxpayer’s dollars are associated with the reward in any way.

“For more than four decades Shakespeare in the Park has provided free entertainment to Buffalo families during the summer, and it was very disheartening to hear someone would steal from the organization” Council Member Feroleto said.

“Shakespeare in Delaware Park is one of our region’s iconic cultural institutions and a wonderful community asset,” said Senator Jacobs.  “Western New Yorkers come together in times of adversity, and I hope this reward offer spurs someone to do the right thing so the Shakespeare in the Park cast and crew can return to focusing on what they do best – delivering outstanding performances for the enjoyment of all Western New Yorkers.”

Local restaurateur Mike Shatzel, who recently opened The Terrace at Marcy Casino, announced that he is doing a happy hour fundraiser at his Thin Man Brewery with the proceeds going to Shakespeare in Delaware Park to assist with the costs of shoring up security efforts for the group. 

Shakespeare in the Park has experienced random acts of vandalism over the years given its outdoor setting.  According to founder and artistic director Saul Elkin, the group has never experienced any major theft or damage of this magnitude.  While disheartening, Elkin said he is gratified by the reward and the community’s response to the incident. 

“The generosity of Senator Jacobs and Councilman Feroleto is extraordinary in every way and I am extremely grateful,” said Elkin.  “This community has always been wonderfully supportive of Shakespeare in Delaware Park, and because of gestures like this reward and the upcoming fundraiser sponsored by Mike Shatzel, our show will go on,” Elkin concluded.  

Anyone with information on the stolen equipment is encouraged to contact the D District Headquarters of the Buffalo Police Department at 851-4413.