Two arts philanthropists have pledged a $700,000 matching gift to the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street Northeast, the center announced last week.

Gil and Jaylee Mead will give $1 of their own for every $2 raised for the Atlas Capital Campaign from Feb. 1, 2007, to March 1, 2008, up to the $700,000 threshold. The campaign already has raised more than $17.6 million.

“Gil and Jaylee Mead have given us an extraordinary opportunity to finish our Capital Campaign,” campaign Chairwoman Jane Lang said in a statement. “We are so very grateful and privileged to have had their support from day one, and now they’re helping us cross the finish line.”

The 59,000-square-foot arts center, located at 1333 H St. NE, features four theaters and rehearsal spaces, three storefront dance studios, and lobby and office space. “Kiss Me Kate” is playing at the theater through March 17.

The matching gift brings the Meads’ total contribution to the Atlas to $1 million. “The Meads have changed the cultural landscape of Washington,” said Atlas Executive Director Patrick Stewart.

— Daniel Heim