Asolo Repertory Theatre receives $1 million donation

The estate of longtime Asolo Rep donor Mary Jo (Jody) Reston recently left Asolo Repertory Theatre a gift of more than $1 million, Asolo Rep announced Monday, Aug. 19.

In honor of the gift, Asolo Rep will name its new state-of-the-art costume facility in Reston's honor. The facility will catalog and preserve thousands of historical costumes for future generations.

In a statement, Asolo Rep, Florida's largest Actors Equity theater, said the gift from Reston launches the second phase of its capital plan, which includes the expansion of the Robert and Beverly Koski Production Center. The facility is located near the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport at 1009 Tallevast Road.

The former publisher of The Vineyard Gazette newspaper in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, Reston retired to Sarasota in 1999. An avid environmentalist, Reston was also a lifelong supporter of theater and the performing arts. 

Her connection to Asolo Rep began more than 15 years ago when she became a subscriber in the 2011-12 season. With the gift from her estate, Reston becomes a member of Asolo Rep's Crystal Society, which recognizes donations of $1 million or more. 

“It’s an incredible gift, and yet another testament to the generosity in this community,” said Asolo Rep Managing Director Ross Egan in a statement.  “With this gift, we are one step closer to the completion of our costume storage facilities and costume shop.”