Due to unforeseen cost increases, the Santa Clarita Festival is asking for Santa Clarita residents help in funding the ninth annual L.A. SummerFEST, a cultural festival featuring music, theater and free performances of Shakespeare’s plays for residents.

For the ninth year, the 2017 festival will feature music, theater and free performances of Shakespeare in Towsley Canyon.

Thousands of Santa Clarita residents turn out every year to witness the hundreds of performers over the summer run.

In years past, LA SummerFEST has funded its events through “pass the hat” donations at performances. However, organizers fear this is not enough to continue, after an increase in operating costs.

The new $7,500 bill is almost twice SummerFEST’s festival budget, organizers said.

Those who donate can receive perks such as water bottles, picnic blankets and tickets to upcoming events.

Those interested in donating can do so here.

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