Comments on: Everything I know about theatre today I learned from blogging

By: Johann Rizal Alexander

Johann Rizal Alexander — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 04:34:07 +0000

Amazing article. The content makes me think, ponder and evaluate the truth of a theatre business. But I absolutely agree that ALL theatre companies in a region must work together to build a demand and dependency on our age old craft. Unfortunately, in our current situation, we are competing with Barney and Bob The Builder. I believe that it is our responsibility to change the perception of our patrons in a subtle way, eventually having the non-commercial independent theatre scene perceived as a luxury item. This from a guy who has been working in information technology and marketing for 7 years.

Johann

By: Chris Casquilho

Chris Casquilho — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 23:08:00 +0000

A recent Rand study points to a structural problem for arts marketing: lack of demand. The assumption that there is an audience, or that one can be created by the right combination of product and marketing is flawed. Arts producers, marketers and managers need to become aware of how the over supply is being created and take measured steps to correct it. Some have suggested that competition will kill off the excess supply, but who among us want to see less art? Start by reading the Rand study on cultural demand. It’s available at their website.

By: Simon

Simon — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:42:00 +0000

Thanks Adam, much appreciated.

So, if we’re forced to accept charitable donations from patrons, is there perhaps another way we can treat them other than ‘thanks for the free money’? What value or service can we offer in exchange for their money? The civic theatres can offer subscriptions or in-theatre advertising or something, what can the independents offer?

I’m a little stumped by how to approach potential patrons about this, at this point in the company’s evolution. I’d be more into branded sponsorship than accepting charitable donations, it seems to fit a more small business aesthetic that I’m more comfortable with. That’s just me, though.

By: Adam

Adam — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:20:00 +0000

One more thing,

I love your thinking that the arts isn't a charity . . . but don't let that undercut the idea that a good arts org wants AND needs donations, preferably from individuals, to thrive.

The arts are a business. But they are a business with a complex economic model. Ticket sales can't cover the cost of the art and infrastructure, so you absolutely need other sources of income.

Selling merchandise may help, but really you need people who are willing to pony up a check.

By: Adam

Adam — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 16:11:00 +0000

This post is fantastic. Time to share it with a few folks.

Adam (Mission Paradox)

By: RVCBard

RVCBard — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 20:44:00 +0000

The funny thing about me being a playwright who’s also into branding and niche marketing for the arts and entertainment industry is that I’m never taken up on my offers to do work.

I used to think it’s because people don’t have money, but I guess that’s not necessarily true.

By: Alison

Alison — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 05:11:00 +0000

If there’s no more drinks, I’m leaving. Earth.

By: Michael Wheeler

Michael Wheeler — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 03:45:00 +0000

Does this mean there’s no more drinks? What about action celebrated by drinks?

By: Simon

Simon — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:50:00 +0000

Right on Jonathan, couldn’t agree more. It’s a time for action not complaints over drinks.

And I love AS by the way, already a huge fan.

By: Jonathan West

Jonathan West — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 02:47:00 +0000

This is a great argument. Great. I’m a theatre and arts blogger in Milwaukee who is freaking tired of all of us whining about lack of funds, lack of people, blah, blah, blah. My mother, a middle school teacher, has the best advice: if you have a problem, make a plain. This is not just a crisis waiting to happen, this is an epidemic that needs to be squashed. We as theatre artists need to reinvigorate the masses. Television and internet be damned. People still like to be surrounded by people. I don’t have the answers, but I intend to pursue them. And you can guest blog on Artsy Schmartsy any damned time you want.