Sag Harbor - Bay Street Theatre kicked off its Second Annual Appeal this week by announcing that actor Richard Kind has joined the Board of Trustees. The theatre will celebrate its 20th anniversary season in 2011. Funds raised will help keep the theatre sustainable to continue bringing the Mainstage Season theatrical productions to the East End and beyond a well as educational outreach programming, theatrical workshops, comedy club and the classic film series.

This not for profit theatre operates as a 501(c)(3)with 50 percent of its operating costs raised each year through donations. The appeal also includes reaching out to find additional board members who might help provide guidance for the theatre as well as financial support throughout the year.

It is with great pleasure that the Board of Directors of Bay Street Theatre welcomes Richard Kind to the Board, says Artistic Directors Sybil Christopher and Murphy Davis. Richard has appeared on Bay Street's stage on numerous occasions delighting our audiences with his one of a kind talent, giving unique and inspired performances. He has also given his time to help support Bay Street, especially as our primo auctioneer at the Summer Gala Benefit. We look forward to our on-going collaboration with Richard and thank him from the bottom of our hearts for his incredible support."

Richard just completed a successful and hysterical run as the judge in "Romance," by David Mamet at Bay Street. He was also in the Bay Street productions of "Rough Crossing" and "The Lady In Question." He is known for his comedic roles on "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Spin City," and "Mad About You." His Broadway credits include "The Producers," "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," "Sly Fox," "Tales of the Allergist," "Wife," and "Bounce." Television audiences will also get to see Richard in upcoming production of HBO's Clint Eastwood's new film "The Hereafter."

I have always been a fan of Bay Street Theatre and its mission, says Richard. The choices Bay Street makes for their season are entertaining as well as stimulating. I like my theatre to provoke, make me feel, think, and even question all the while being entertained. When one singular jewel like Bay Street stands alone, that should be treated with the utmost deference. Theater takes hard work, care, discipline, and energy to make it good. So, to sustain, we must acknowledge that we must invest ourselves a little more.

"Richard has given many wonderful performances on our stage over recent years," says Frank Filipo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. "His willingness to bring his talents and theatre savvy to our Board has energized all of us as we head into Bay Street's 20th year.

Our goal is to raise $450,000 during the last quarter of the year, says Tracy Mitchell, Executive Director. While no amount of support is too small, we are also looking for sponsors to support and help underwrite programs including the Mainstage Season and our other initiatives.

For more information call 631-725-0818, or go to www.baystreet.org.

Bay Street Theatre is a not-for-profit institution presenting new, classic and contemporary works with a commitment to challenging and entertaining our diverse community. This commitment extends to educational programs for all ages to foster the continued value of theatre as a vital art form for future generations.