CAPE MAY –– The Equity professional East Lynne Theater Company, now celebrating its 28th Season, has another reason to celebrate.

This Equity professional company, whose 2008 Cape May production season runs from June through December, just received word that it's receiving $15,000 from the Cooperative Marketing Program, provided by the New Jersey Department of State: Division of Travel and Tourism, to help to advertise the season.

In applying for this prestigious grant, East Lynne proved that it is a tourist destination, with 12 percent of its patrons coming to Cape May just to see an East Lynne production. Many of these patrons are first-time visitors to this historic town.

East Lynne also has several touring productions, and this year alone, "Someone Must Wash the Dishes," "Victorian Magic," "Paul Robeson Through His Words and Music," and "Sherlock Holmes' Adventure of the Speckled Band," were seen in New York, Illinois, South Carolina, Kentucky, and in 12 different counties in New Jersey. When shows go on the road, the names of East Lynne Theater Company and Cape May, NJ, travel with them.

This season, the company is offering eight different shows, including three plays from the 1920's, a magic show, a radio show, and three world premiers – performing in two different venues.

For information about the season, educational outreach, and touring productions, contact the office at 884-5898 or online at www.eastlynnetheater.org. Season tickets, which include 5 passes to be used at any time, for only $75.00, are available and must be purchased by July 1. Checks may be mailed to the office: 121 Fourth Ave., West Cape May, NJ 08204.