Little Theatre on the Bay: Jannie Woods

Putting on a production, like Disney’s The Little Mermaid, takes time, dedication and lots of volunteers to make each show go swimmingly. Making that sort of magic happen is what makes our community stronger, happier, better.

Little Theatre on the Bay needed a banking partner that would help them focus on what they do best – putting on their next big production.

As a nonprofit, the theater couldn’t justify the fees they encountered at other banks and found the process of making even small transactions frustrating and time-consuming—that was before they found Oregon Pacific Bank, says Jeanne Woods, vice president of the theater’s board of directors.

“We are treated with respect and not as a burden at OPB—bank employees greet us by name when we walk into the lobby,” Jeanne says.

Today, this treasured North Bend, Oregon, nonprofit counts on us for their checking and savings needs and credit card services, such as providing card readers at their venue, as well bill pay and gift card services. If an issue arises, they know they can count on us to resolve it immediately, ensuring that they can focus on their performances and not their finances.

Jeanne says they often make it a point to bank on Fridays, when cookies are made fresh for those who stop in. “There is no long wait time for a teller,” Jeanne says. “And, of course, we enjoy their fresh cookies and sitting on a comfortable couch in the lobby for a minute with a cup of coffee in hand. It makes it feel like you’re visiting a friend that just happens to be a business partner.”

One of the goals of the nonprofit is to create programing that reflects the long-established traditions of the local area by producing plays, summer music and events, like the annual Masque Awards, which honors the actors and volunteers that make their theatre program possible.

Little Theatre on the Bay was formed in 1947 when a group of actors got together to produce live radio plays. Over the last seven decades, it has evolved to meet the needs of the ever-changing local community. It plays a vital role, contributing to the quality of life for those who call the Coos Bay-North Bend area home. As owner and operator of the historic Liberty Theater, this nonprofit organization has been working to restore the The Liberty Theater in time for its 100-year anniversary in 2024.

“OPB recognizes that a strong arts community helps promote a strong community, in general,” Jeanne says. “In order for continual growth to occur, all businesses must be developed with help from each other.”

Oregon Pacific Bank is committed to helping and supporting Little Theatre on the Bay, so that it can continue to contribute to the vibrant culture of our community. We are thrilled and privileged to work with such a meaningful organization. Be sure to check out their season line up!