Michael M. Kaiser Reflects on State of the Arts in New Book 'Curtains?: The Future of the Arts in America'

Michael M. Kaiser, founder and chairman of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management at the University of Maryland, is the author of "Curtains?: The Future of the Arts in America," published by Brandeis University Press.

In this clear-minded but sobering book, he assesses the current state of arts institutions-orchestras, opera, ballet, modern dance, theater companies and museums. New developments in the twenty-first century, including the Internet explosion, the demise of the recording industry, the near-death of subscriptions, economic instability, the introduction of movie-theater opera, the erosion of newspapers and the resultant threat to serious arts criticism, and the aging of the donor base have together created tremendous challenges for all arts organizations.

Using Michael Porter's model of industry structure to describe how industries evolve, Kaiser argues persuasively that unless steps are taken now, midsized performing arts institutions will have all but evaporated by 2035. Only the largest arts organizations will survive, with tickets priced for the very wealthy and programming limited to the most popular and lucrative productions. Most people will only be able to access arts through online performances.

Kaiser concludes with a call to arms, and details what needs to happen now to sustain the performing arts for generations to come.

Tony Award-winner Terrance McNally remarked, "No one knows more about arts administration than Michael Kaiser. No wonder people the world over clamor for his attention and keen advice." And opera legend Placido Domingo said, "Michael Kaiser is very competent and far-sighted in dealing with the extremely complicated economic and organizational aspects of performing arts institutions, especially in this period of grave crises."

Michael M. Kaiser, with thirty years of experience in the performing arts, has led some of the most prestigious arts organizations in the world including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Royal Opera House, American Ballet Theatre, and the Alvin Ailey organization. He is the founder and chairman of the DeVos Institute of Arts Management at the University of Maryland. His other books include "The Cycle, Leading Roles: 50 Questions Every Arts Board Should Ask," "The Art of the Turnaround," and "Conversation Starters: Arts Management Topics for Today."

"Curtains?: The Future of the Arts in America," is published by Brandeis University Press, has a list price of $26.95 for the hardcover and $21.99 for the Ebook.