The Advoc8te absolutely HATES sharing news like this! I can’t even wrap my head around the idea that someone had the nerve to break-in to the Anacostia Playhouse at all, let alone at Christmas! It blows my mind and is the opposite of what Southeast Love is all about! I connected with Adele Robey earlier today and to say she is heartbroken is an understatement. Adele has given so much to so many, that someone decided to steal from the Playhouse is mind boggling. The robber(s) stole laptops and a computer, a tablet, all the box office cash, blank checks and credit cards — which they promptly used to make unauthorized purchases. They also caused a lot of damage when they used a crowbar to break-in and get into locked cabinets. They left a lot of destruction and chaos in their wake. I am including some photos of the aftermath.

Since opening it’s doors five years ago, The Anacostia Playhouse has been such a welcoming, inviting and special place for the arts and the community. For this to happen to them — at Christmas — leaves me speechless and frankly, PISSED OFF.

And you what happens when I get pissed off, I act. So after talking to Adele, I decided to create the Anacostia Playhouse Robbery Replacement Fund on GoFundMe. Money raised will help replace the items that were stolen or damaged, make repairs, upgrade the Playhouse’s security system and install security cameras. It will also help support the Playhouse while they are closed to make repairs. And for those of you who do not know, Adele is still recovering from being hit by a car while she walking in a cross walk over the summer. Despite being in recovery, she hasn’t let that slow her down in putting together an amazing lineup of playhouse programing and performances.

So I am asking all of my readers, neighbors, Ward 8 and DC residents, arts supporters and community leaders to please make a donation to the Anacostia Playhouse fundraiser. Also, purchase tickets to the Playhouse’s next production, American Moor. Let’s come together this Christmas in the ultimate display of commUNITY and help our friend Adele and make the Playhouse whole again and better than ever! Thank you!

The Advoc8te AKA Nikki Peele

P.S. And if you know anything about this crime, please contact the police!

Update: Any news organizations that want to use these photos for their news broadcast are cleared to use them. Please credit “Nikki Peele/Congress Heights on the Rise.” Thank you.