Industry Pro Newsletter: NEA Reports On the State of Nonprofits, Tom Viola Honored
Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, predicts renewed interest in live theater, with audiences craving authenticity in an AI-driven world.
As we wrap up the year, this final newsletter of 2024 reflects on the resilience, growth, and transformation shaping the theater industry. From nonprofit theaters innovating in the face of financial pressures to the anticipation of live performance rebounding amidst AI fatigue, the stories highlight an industry evolving while staying grounded in community and creativity. Stories include Broadway honoring Tom Viola, regional theaters navigating leadership changes, and international venues undergoing major renovations. Thank you for your continued engagement, and happy holidays from all of us! We look forward to sharing more in the new year.
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Employment Opportunity
Director of Education - Paper Mill Playhouse
Paper Mill Playhouse (PMP), the nation's premier musical theater, seeks a visionary and experienced leader to serve as Director of Education. This leadership position offers an exceptional opportunity to advance Paper Mill's award-winning classes, training programs, and educational initiatives. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership in developing and implementing educational programs that align with Paper Mill's mission to foster a creative environment, advance the art form, educate students, develop future theater lovers, nurture inclusion, and provide access for all.
Industry Trends
NEA Report Highlights Nonprofit Theater Resilience
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) released a new report exploring the challenges faced by nonprofit theaters in the U.S. and their innovative responses to financial pressures. Theaters have increasingly turned to digital programming, community-focused initiatives, and strategic partnerships to adapt to reduced revenues and staff downsizing. While many theaters scaled back productions, these adaptations have created opportunities for sustainability and operational reinvention. The report emphasizes how creativity and resilience are helping theaters navigate a changing landscape.
Know Your Bone: Four Key Trends for Cultural Organizations in 2025
Cultural organizations face critical shifts in 2025, according to Colleen Dilenschneider of IMPACTS Experience. A stronger U.S. dollar may push domestic high-propensity visitors toward international travel, while intentions to visit the U.S. from Western Europe have dropped significantly, threatening international tourism revenue. Rising advertising costs are forcing organizations to adapt their marketing budgets to remain competitive. Additionally, broad access programs, such as free admission, risk displacing paying guests and reducing membership renewals. The report highlights the importance of targeted strategies to sustain engagement and financial health.
Reddit Cofounder Predicts Theater Boom Amid AI Fatigue
Alexis Ohanian, Reddit cofounder, predicts a resurgence in live theater as audiences seek authentic, human-centered experiences to counteract growing AI fatigue. Ohanian believes the rise of artificial intelligence in entertainment will drive demand for live, unfiltered performances that celebrate creativity and personal connection. He highlights theater’s ability to engage audiences emotionally, offering a contrast to AI-generated content.
Broadway/New York
Broadway Honors Tom Viola’s 30-Year Legacy
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS Executive Director Tom Viola was celebrated in a star-studded tribute marking his three decades of service. During his tenure, Viola spearheaded fundraising efforts that amassed over $300 million, supporting individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other critical health issues. The event, featuring performances by prominent Broadway artists, underscored his enduring impact on the theater community and his leadership in fostering generosity and awareness. Viola’s dedication has made Broadway Cares a cornerstone of philanthropy in the arts.
Shubert Organization Plans Renovation for Broadway’s Imperial Theatre
The Shubert Organization has submitted plans to renovate Broadway’s Imperial Theatre, aiming to modernize the nearly century-old venue while preserving its historic character. Proposed updates include accessibility improvements, seating enhancements, and upgraded backstage facilities. The Imperial Theatre, known for hosting legendary productions such as Les Misérables, will maintain its role as a premier performance space following the renovations.
Regional
Chicago Tribune: Congo Square Theatre Ensemble Protests Board Leadership
The ensemble of Chicago's Congo Square Theatre, a prominent Black theater company, announced a boycott of all 2025 programming until board president Dawn Frances Reese steps down. The group cited unresolved requests for neutral mediation with the board. Founded in 1999, Congo Square has premiered notable works by Lydia Diamond and Chadwick Boseman. Recent leadership changes include the resignations of artistic director Ericka Ratcliff and executive director Charlique Rolle. Charles Montorio-Archer now serves as interim executive director.
Yahoo Entertainment: Cervilio Miguel Amador Named Artistic Director of Cincinnati Ballet
Cincinnati Ballet has officially appointed Cervilio Miguel Amador as its permanent artistic director following his interim tenure since September 2023. A former principal dancer with the company, Amador is celebrated for his passionate artistry and deep connection to the organization. His leadership comes during a pivotal time as the ballet company celebrates its 50th anniversary of The Nutcracker. Amador’s vision promises to bring a fresh perspective and stability to the company’s future performances and community engagement.
BroadwayWorld Launching Youth Theatre Database - Submit Your Information Today
In continuing our efforts to be the most comprehensive source of theatre news and information, BroadwayWorld is launching a Youth Theatre Database where readers can search for information about youth theatre programs in their area. Submit your company's information today!
International
BBC News: National Theatre Wales Transitions Amid Funding Loss
National Theatre Wales announced it will cease its current operations due to the loss of Arts Council Wales funding but will relaunch as TEAM (Theatre, Education, Arts, Music). This initiative shifts focus to grassroots community and educational projects, aiming to better serve local audiences and artists. The restructuring follows extensive self-reflection, with the organization emphasizing collaboration and direct engagement with Welsh communities. TEAM’s new mission is to reinvigorate support for the arts in Wales through a decentralized and inclusive approach.
Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre to Reopen in 2025 After Major Refurbishment
Glasgow’s Citizens Theatre is set to reopen in 2025 following an extensive multi-year refurbishment aimed at preserving its historic structure while modernizing facilities. The project focuses on enhancing accessibility, improving backstage areas, and restoring the iconic Victorian auditorium. The renovation reaffirms the theater’s role as a cultural landmark and a cornerstone for the local arts community.
Missed our last few newsletters?
As the year winds down, this week’s stories reflect a season of change, opportunity, and challenges in the theatre world. From the opening of voting for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Regional Awards to the rise of effective altruism reshaping holiday giving, we explore how innovation and community engagement continue to shape the arts. Highlights include expanded performance schedules on Broadway, significant regional funding initiatives like King County’s Doors Open program, and transitions like Heather Lanza’s appointment at NextStop Theatre. Meanwhile, stories of financial strain, such as Germany’s cultural budget cuts and UK theatre downsizing, remind us of the ongoing need for sustainable support in the arts sector.
December 9, 2024 - Broadway’s Jukebox Musical Trend: Financial Boon or Creative Challenge?
Leadership transformations and financial strategies are reshaping the theater world, with new leaders like Alisha Tonsic at TCG and Jan Svendsen Weiss launching ACTivate4Good to drive innovation and social impact. Broadway faces mounting pressures as producers navigate rising costs and favor jukebox musicals over original works to mitigate risks. Regionally, initiatives like BroadwayWorld’s donation database and the reinvention of Cal Shakes’ scene shop demonstrate resilience amid challenges. Internationally, Scotland secures historic arts funding, and the UK grapples with pricing dynamics, balancing accessibility with sustainability. Together, these stories reflect a theater landscape adapting to shifting demands and opportunities.
December 2, 2024 - J.P. Morgan’s NextList, Budget Cuts in Berlin, and Shen Yun Allegations
This week's newsletter highlights pivotal moments and developments shaping the theatre world, from New York to Berlin. In academia, Professor Christian Parker redefines dramaturgy’s role at Columbia, while Broadway remembers the late Gavin Creel with a livestreamed memorial. Globally, J.P. Morgan’s NextList and Berlin’s proposed arts budget cuts spark reflections on the value of culture, as regional and international initiatives, including MTI’s support for disaster-stricken theatres and new leadership at The Old Vic, underscore the resilience and adaptability of the arts. Lastly, a troubling lawsuit involving Shen Yun Performing Arts raises questions about labor conditions in the performing arts.
BroadwayWorld Resources
BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program
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As audiences get set to return to in-person performances, and as your company works to market your own return to the stage, make sure you've got your upcoming shows in our regional events calendars. Listings are free of charge, with boosting options available. Get your show listed now
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