john chalsty, longtime supporter
and patron OF charleston stage
November 7, 1933 - november 12, 2023
John Chalsty, who along with his wife Jill were a longtime supporters and patrons of Charleston Stage. They were lead sponsors of plays, musicals, galas and Charleston Stage’s 40th Anniversary Celebration. They were awarded the Laura Hewitt Distinguished Service Award in 2018. John was a patron of many arts organizations including Theatre Lincoln Center (where he chaired the Board). In addition to Charleston Stage, he was also an avid supporter of Spoleto Festival USA, and a leader in the renovation and reinvention of the Gaillard Center. Often his gifts were low key and behind the scenes but very special and had a major impact. One of these special gifts was the Great Recession, which coincided with the three years Charleston Stage had to perform elsewhere while the Dock Street Theatre was under renovations. It was a very challenging time but he and Jill along with others stepped forward to create a critical three year “Next Stage Fund” that not only allowed Charleston Stage to navigate that challenging economic downturn but also allowed Charleston Stage to become debt free by the end of the recession and just in time for our move back into the Dock Street Theatre.
“John, along with his wife Jill, were not only very generous donors over the years", noted Julian Wiles, Charleston Stage Founder and Director Emeritus. “John and Jill were true cheerleaders for the performing arts in Charleston and especially for our work here at Charleston Stage. They seldom missed a performance and John with his twinkling bright eyes and broad smile always had a kind word for the production and the performance at hand. He was a true friend to me and to Charleston Stage. He will truly be missed.”