The Economy vs. The Performing Arts

Meryl Cates | Nov 04, 2008 | 0

There was little talk of the arts in the debates, town hall meetings, or news coverage.  The economic crisis looms over everyone's head as jobs are hard to find, and prices are still high.  We all hope the economy will turn around soon, but in the mean time it will most definitely affect the arts.

There was no "Joe the dancer" in the election spotlight, but funding for the arts will become increasingly important if theaters see fewer audience members and subscription holders. How do those involved in the administrative end of dance view this time of economic difficulty?

Time Out: New York interviewed the Executive director of American Ballet Theatre, Rachel S. Moore, in an article called Special Arts Report 2008: Surviving, and looked at how the economy can be expected to hit the arts.

While ABT is a larger company, so perhaps, will have slightly less of a financial problem, the smaller dance troupes and performance artists will feel their resources tighten up.  Although the interview is from early October, unfortunately things haven't changed too drastically, so it is still timely and somewhat prophetic.

Not only does Moore discuss the ticket sales, but also expresses concern about the artists themselves.  Those who would create the new and cutting-edge works of our time may be stifled. The performing arts, like dance, live to be seen and experienced.  This will not only effect the pocket book, but also the vital organs of art...its inspiration.

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Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Modern, Broadway, Ballroom, Teacher, Enthusiast, Parent, Retailer, Studio, Competitions & Conventions, Performance, Economy (all tags)