THEA 320 - Creativity is Not Just for the Right Brained: The Business of the Performing Arts

Credits: (3)
Prerequisite(s): THEA 150 or THEA 200 or consent of instructor
“Never let a good crisis go to waste.” The successful business practitioner in the performing arts, whether working for a large or small not-for-profit arts institution or managing their own career/company, is one who embraces and adapts to a state of crisis. In this course we will study what it means to manage the business of the performing arts, whether during relatively stable times or in response to a formidable crisis like Covid19 which can require a complete paradigm shift. Areas explored will include: the mission/vision statement as a guiding principle in artistic decisions; benefits and drawbacks of being a 501c3 not-for-profit; different approaches to marketing, audience development and community outreach; budgeting and the complexities of earned vs. contributed income; and the crucial role of fundraising and grant writing. We will discuss the continued presence of white male supremacy in the performing arts in the U.S., and the responsibilities of arts administrators and managers, as community leaders, to effectively open their doors to all artists and audiences.