From the Creator

Dear Friends,

My name is Joe Klinker and I'm the creator of Duck. I'm going to break character for just a minute if you don't mind.

This whole thing started because I love a few theater kids, and I watched what theater did for them when we needed it most. So I made a duck. And now that duck is helping raise money for theater programs across the country.

Here's the thing. What most of us see, we see from our seats in the audience. What we see is the finished product. We don't see all of the kids and volunteers working last minute and late at night because that last minute means they have a little extra time to create something amazing, for us.

Theater directors especially hold a place in my heart. I see them. I see the burdens they carry and how quickly they hide them. Meanwhile, I have learned that there are two things theater directors appreciate more than anything: a pair of helping hands, and a little cash. Reliable sound systems, safe lighting and stage gear, costumes, props, show royalties, insurance, travel — it adds up. And most schools don’t exactly have Broadway budgets.

Still, they find a way. But it shouldn't be so difficult. Theater is a place where kids and the adults who lead them deserve to take risks, build something, and feel the rush of an opening night. They deserve to fail in front of people… and be applauded anyway. They deserve a place where being “too much” is finally just right.

That’s what your purchase supports. Not just a pin. Not even just a fundraiser. But a stage — and a chance — for kids who deserve it.