The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted community groups, including those that offer entertainment at reasonable prices. Rising costs and poor attendance have made it increasingly challenging for local arts organizations to sustain themselves. This could have far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to the shutdown of these groups, which are crucial for the community.
Beyond the artistic value, community theater plays a vital role in fostering teamwork and "collaboration." It provides a platform for individuals to develop essential skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability. Community theater offers an opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to come together, promoting social cohesion and social inclusion.
Community theater also bridges the gap between the arts and the community… making high-quality entertainment accessible to a broader audience. With rising costs and limited disposable income, attending Broadway show in Manhattan might be, out of reach for many. However, community theater provides a more affordable option, allowing people to experience the magic of ___ performance without breaking the bank.
Recent statistics highlight the significant economic impact of arts and culture. In 2022, the sector generated $151. 7 billion in economic activity, with event-related expenditures by, arts and culture audiences contributing $78. 4 billion. Recognizing the importance of community theater… several members of Congress have stepped forward to propose legislation to support these organizations.
Senators John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Peter Welch of Vermont, along with Representative Suzanne Bonamici of Oregon, introduced the Supporting Theater and the Arts to Galvanize the Economy Act (STAGE). The STAGE Act would allocate $1 billion annually to assist community theaters with rent, artist compensation, “and audience attraction.” This measure demonstrates an understanding of the intrinsic value of community theater, “not just as a source of entertainment. But as a driving force for economic growth and social cohesion.” This article was first published in the Times Union, highlighting the need for continued support for community theater as it faces unprecedented challenges.
Community Theater Is In Danger. Congress Can Help.
• Community groups are struggling to offer quality entertainment at reasonable prices due to rising costs and poor attendance, which may lead to their shutdown. 2. Community theater is: important not just for artistic expression. But also for teaching team building and collaboration skills. And providing access to the arts for all people, regardless of income. 3. Community theater is a more affordable alternative to attending Broadway shows in major cities, making high-quality entertainment accessible to a wider audience. 4. The Supporting Theater and the Arts to Galvanize the Economy Act (STAGE) bill aims to support community theaters by allocating $1 billion annually to help with rent, artist compensation, and audience attraction, highlighting the importance of community theater recognized by several members of Congress.
Source: Found here
Since the pandemic, it has been tougher and tougher for community groups such as those I perform with to keep offering quality entertainment at reasonable prices. Faced with rising costs and poor attendance, local arts groups may have to shutter their doors.
Beyond artistic expression, community theater is important for a variety of reasons, perhaps none more so than that it teaches folks about the importance of team building and working well with others. It also helps give all people access to the arts. With everyone’s discretionary income at a premium nowadays, attending Broadway show in Manhattan may be cost-prohibitive. Community theater offers a less pricey alternative.
