Dallas Summer Musicals Announces Comerica Bank as Presenting Sponsor

Dallas Summer Musicals Announces Comerica Bank as Presenting Sponsor

Announcement marks unprecedented event in Dallas Summer Musicals' 68 Year History

DALLAS, Oct. 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM), the largest producer of live musical theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, announced today a multi-year agreement that makes Comerica Bank the official presenting sponsor for Dallas Summer Musicals.

   (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH112 )   (Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20010807/CMALOGO )  

Under the agreement, Comerica Bank's logo will be incorporated into Dallas Summer Musicals logo, and will appear extensively inside and outside the Music Hall at Fair Park, as well as DSM performances at The Majestic Theatre, The Texas Theatre and any other venues in which DSM may present in the future. The "Name-In-Title" logo will be included in all marketing and promotional materials for the next four years.

Today's announcement is a key milestone for the non-profit organization, as the 4-year agreement marks the first presenting sponsor agreement for Dallas Summer Musicals. The announcement was made by Michael A. Jenkins, President and Managing Director of Dallas Summer Musicals presented by Comerica Bank, at a luncheon at the Crescent Club.

At the news conference, DSM's Chairman of the Board, Kit Williams, also announced that as part of the agreement, Comerica Bank will be the presenting sponsor of the Curtain Call Gala, a spectacular evening of entertainment preceded by an elegant seated dinner. This year, Grammy-nominated performer, composer, and arranger Michael Feinstein and Jekyll & Hyde Broadway star Linda Eder will be the featured entertainment on Saturday, February 16, 2008 at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. Williams said, "This partnership underscores Comerica's philosophy of community involvement and volunteerism, as well as their commitment to giving back through innovative philanthropy programs and partnerships. Comerica's generosity and community spirit are to be commended. Their donations of time, talent and funds are setting an example of philanthropy throughout Dallas."

Jenkins said, "We are honored to acknowledge Comerica Bank as Dallas Summer Musicals' first official presenting sponsor. This level of corporate recognition has been unprecedented in our 68 year history. For many years, Comerica Bank has generously supported Dallas Summer Musicals and our programs for low income, at-risk and special needs children. We have had a solid, longstanding relationship, and anytime we can continue to reinforce an established bond with greater support from and recognition for a company that is committed to our organization and the Dallas area, it makes the agreement that much sweeter." Jenkins continues, "As a non-profit organization, DSM relies on funding from the community to bridge the gap between ticket revenue and rising production costs. The corporate support of community-minded organizations, like Comerica, makes it possible for us to bring the Best of Broadway to Dallas at affordable prices and to continue to grow our educational and community outreach programs." Jenkins adds, "Comerica is a first-class organization that is enriching our local community through their contributions, and we are grateful to be their partner."

Ralph W. Babb, Jr., Comerica Incorporated Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Comerica's involvement with the Dallas Summer Musicals spans many years, thanks in large part to the vision and leadership of Chuck Gummer. Comerica has a strong commitment to the communities in which we live and work, and our presenting sponsorship of the Dallas Summer Musicals reinforces that commitment."

"Comerica is proud to partner with the Dallas Summer Musicals, which has an impressive 68 year history of providing quality theatrical entertainment to our community," said Charles L. "Chuck" Gummer, Comerica Texas market president. "We believe the Dallas Summer Musicals' community outreach efforts are important in making it possible for many in our community to appreciate and experience the performing arts."

About Comerica Bank

Comerica Bank is a subsidiary of Comerica Incorporated (NYSE:CMA) , a financial services company headquartered in Dallas and strategically aligned by three business segments: The Business Bank, The Retail Bank, and Wealth & Institutional Management. Comerica focuses on relationships, and helping people and businesses be successful. In addition to Texas, Comerica Bank locations can be found in Michigan, California, Arizona and Florida, with select businesses operating in several other states, Canada and Mexico. Comerica reported total assets of $58.6 billion at June 30, 2007. To receive e-mail alerts of breaking Comerica news, go to http://www.comerica.com/newsalerts.

About Dallas Summer Musicals

Now celebrating its 68th season, Dallas Summer Musicals, Inc. (DSM) is the largest producer of live theatrical entertainment in the Southwest, the second oldest summer theatre organization in the United States, and the sixth largest non-profit theatre company. DSM has been entertaining North Texas audiences with the finest in live, musical theatre since 1941. In addition to presenting national Broadway tours, DSM also produces shows on Broadway, presents and tours local productions, and is involved in developing new works. Dallas Summer Musicals' affiliates include DSM Management Group, Inc. (DSMMGI), which manages the Music Hall at Fair Park and the historical Majestic Theatre.

As a non-profit organization, DSM relies on a variety of funding sources to bring the Best of Broadway to Dallas at affordable ticket prices, as well as to preserve the beautiful historic theatres, educate young audiences and create important community programs. DSM's Seats for Kids program provides a meaningful arts education experience to thousands of low income, at-risk and special needs children. DSM and the Dallas Police Department partner together to provide positive incentives for youth that are at risk for gang membership through the Stage Right program. In addition, The DSM School of Musical Theatre offers professional theatre arts training and scholarships to talented students in need. Ticket sales alone do not sustain these endeavors. Only support from committed businesses, foundations and individuals make these programs possible. For more information about Dallas Summer Musicals, presented by Comerica Bank, visit their website at www.dallassummermusicals.org or call (214) 421-5678.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071004/CLTH112
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN22
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Comerica Bank

CONTACT: Dallas Summer Musicals PR, Jo Ann Holt, +1-214-421-5678 ext
109, joannholt@charter.net; Events Media, Sharon Adams, Adams Communications
Public Relations, +1-214-343-4402, socialwhirl.com, Adamscomm1@aol.com; Wayne
Mielke, of Comerica Bank, +1-214-462-4463

Web site: http://www.comerica.com/
http://www.dallassummermusicals.org/
http://www.comerica.com/newsalerts

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Profile: International Entertainment