By Howard Pousner
hpousner@ajc.com

Actor’s Express, which declared itself in a “true life or death moment” in February when it launched a $200,000 drive to erase accumulated debt, will celebrate its survival and the launch of its 24th season with a bash on Sunday.

Having raised $162,000 from 600 individuals and two foundations, the troupe is throwing a private party for supporters, board members, actors and staff.

Managing director Lara Smith said leaders have been “blown away by the support.

“We’ve raised enough money to stabilize and start next season but will continue to fund-raise,” Smith said in an e-mail to the AJC.

The West Midtown company opens its 2011-12 season with “Spring Awakening” on Aug. 25.