Industry Pro Newsletter: New Tony Eligibility Rulings, the NEA Announces Nearly $40 Million in Grants

From national funding initiatives and emerging talent showcases to leadership changes and awards season updates, the industry demonstrates its capacity to adapt and inspire. Regional and international efforts underline the importance of community support, whether through wildfire relief in California or advocating for arts funding in Bristol. With new venues, leadership appointments, and cultural projects on the horizon, this week’s newsletter celebrates the power of the performing arts to drive innovation and foster connection across diverse audiences

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Employment Opportunity

Managing Director - Sunset Playhouse

Sunset Playhouse seeks a multi-talented, experienced Managing Director to lead an established successful community-based entertainment organization in Elm Grove, WI. This is a new on-site position and offers the rare opportunity for the right candidate to assume responsibility for all aspects of the Playhouse including the long-term sustainability of the organization. The candidate must be a dedicated, creative, flexible professional and should have experience in theater production, fundraising, marketing, people and nonprofit financial management.

Industry Trends

Video: Watch the Finale of Next On Stage: Season 5

The fifth season of BroadwayWorld's "Next On Stage" concluded with a live finale at 54 Below in New York City on January 19, 2025. The competition showcased talented high school and college students from across the nation, culminating in performances by the top finalists. The event celebrated emerging talent in musical theatre, providing participants with exposure and opportunities within the industry. The winners were announced during the finale, marking the end of another successful season of the series.

National Endowment for the Arts Gives $36.8 Million in Funding Nationwide

The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has announced grants totaling $36.8 million to support arts projects across the United States. This funding aims to enhance access to the arts, support arts education, and strengthen the creative capacity of communities. The NEA's commitment underscores the importance of the arts in enriching the nation's cultural landscape.

Colleen Dilenschneider: 2025 Market Potential for Performing Arts Organizations

As of January 2025, performance-based organizations are projected to achieve 88.8% of their 2019 attendance levels. This indicates a gradual recovery from the pandemic's impact, though attendance remains below pre-pandemic projections. Challenges persist in attracting new and younger audiences, contributing to a decline in market potential.

Broadway/New York

Tony Awards Administration Committee Rules on Eligibility for 'Sunset Boulevard,' 'Gypsy,' and More

The Tony Awards Administration Committee convened to determine the eligibility of 11 Broadway productions for the 2024-2025 season. Notably, the revivals of "Sunset Boulevard" and "Gypsy" were deemed eligible in the Best Revival categories.

40th Annual Lucille Lortel Awards Sets Dates and Reveals Special Award Recipients

The 40th Annual Lucille Lortel Awards, celebrating excellence in Off-Broadway theatre, are scheduled for May 4, 2025. Special honorees include individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the theatre community. The event will recognize outstanding achievements in various categories, highlighting the vibrancy and diversity of Off-Broadway productions.

Seaview Acquires Tony Kiser Theater; Will Re-Brand the Space as Studio Seaview

Seaview, a theatrical production company, has acquired the Tony Kiser Theater and plans to rebrand it as Studio Seaview. The venue will undergo renovations to enhance its facilities and expand its programming capabilities. Seaview aims to create a versatile space that supports innovative theatrical productions and fosters artistic collaboration. The rebranded theater is expected to open its doors to the public later this year.

American Theatre: Maya Choldin Named Managing Director of NY Theatre Workshop

Maya Choldin has been appointed as the new Managing Director of New York Theatre Workshop (NYTW). Choldin brings extensive experience in theater management and production to the role. She will work alongside Artistic Director Patricia McGregor to lead the organization.

Regional 

Entertainment Community Fund and Dramatists Guild Foundation Offer Financial Assistance Following California Wildfires

In response to the recent California wildfires, the Entertainment Community Fund and the Dramatists Guild Foundation have partnered to provide financial assistance to affected individuals in the entertainment industry. The initiative aims to support artists and professionals facing hardships due to the disasters. Eligible individuals can apply for emergency grants to help with immediate needs and recovery efforts. This collaboration underscores the organizations' commitment to supporting the creative community in times of crisis.

Broadway Cares Provides $500,000 in Emergency Grants to Support California Wildfire Recovery

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS has announced the allocation of $500,000 in emergency grants to assist with California wildfire recovery efforts. The funds will be distributed to various organizations providing relief to those affected by the wildfires. This substantial contribution reflects Broadway Cares' dedication to humanitarian aid and support for communities in need. The grants aim to address immediate needs and aid in the long-term recovery process.

Hollywood Pantages Theatre & Nederlander Organization Pledge $125,000 To L.A. Wildfire Relief

The Hollywood Pantages Theatre and the Nederlander Organization have pledged $125,000 to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts. The donation will assist organizations providing aid to individuals and communities impacted by the fires. This commitment highlights the theater community's solidarity and willingness to contribute to disaster relief initiatives. The funds are intended to support both immediate assistance and ongoing recovery programs.

Chicago Sun-Times: Imagining the Next Big Thing in Arts and Culture in Downtown Chicago

Chicago's downtown is poised for a cultural renaissance, with plans for new arts and entertainment venues. Proposals include the development of a state-of-the-art performance space and the expansion of existing cultural institutions. These initiatives aim to attract diverse audiences and enhance the city's cultural landscape. Community engagement and investment are key components in realizing these ambitious projects

American Theatre: Robert Barry Fleming to Step Down From Actors Theatre of Louisville

Robert Barry Fleming, Executive Artistic Director of Actors Theatre of Louisville, has announced his resignation. Fleming, who joined the organization in June 2019, will step down after successfully steering the theatre through a challenging period, including the COVID-19 pandemic. He has been instrumental in reimagining the theatre's artistic and community impact.

International

The Guardian: Equity Urges Bristol City Council to Drop Cuts to Arts and Culture Budget

Equity, the trade union for performing arts professionals, has called on Bristol City Council to abandon proposed budget cuts to arts and culture. The union warns that these reductions could harm the city’s creative sector and limit public access to cultural resources. Equity argues that investment in arts and culture generates significant economic and social benefits. The organization is mobilizing support from local artists and residents to advocate against the cuts and ensure continued funding.

The Stage: Anne Wade Becomes First Female Chair of Donmar Warehouse

Anne Wade has been appointed as the new chair of London's Donmar Warehouse, making her the first woman to hold this position in the theatre's history. She succeeds Adam Kenwright, who stepped down in August after nearly four years in the role. Wade brings extensive experience from her roles in global investment management and as a trustee of Portland Stage in Maine.

Missed our last few newsletters?

January 13, 2025 - Why Audiences Are Asking For Refunds, IATSE Strike, Congestion Pricing Impact

This week, we explore whether congestion pricing is reshaping Manhattan travel habits and examine a labor strike disrupting productions at Atlantic Theater Company. On the regional stage, we reflect on the loss of Theatre Palisades to Los Angeles wildfires and the struggles facing Bay Area theatres. Internationally, the launch of Welsh National Theatre and ATG’s acquisition of SOM Produce bring new opportunities, while changes at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School underscore ongoing financial pressures. Each story highlights resilience amid transformation in the global arts community.

January 6, 2025 - Broadway Capitalization Budgets Continue to Increase, Congestion Pricing Goes Into Effect

As 2025 begins, the theater and arts industries are navigating financial shifts and creative innovations. From Broadway's escalating production budgets to Berlin’s significant arts funding cuts, economic pressures are shaping the global cultural landscape. Meanwhile, New York City takes bold steps with congestion pricing, impacting theatergoers and commuters alike. Amid these challenges, artistic resilience shines through – whether in rural arts communities, Hollywood’s ongoing fight to rebound, or the launch of the Harvey Fierstein Theatre Lab to nurture new talent. This issue explores how creativity and commerce intersect across the stage and beyond.

December 23, 2024 - NEA Reports On the State of Nonprofits, Tom Viola Honored

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

BroadwayWorld Resources

BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program

The digital solution to your show program needs - want to see what's possible? Check out the Stage Mag's for A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and for The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)! Then start building your own at stagemag.broadwayworld.com.

Add Your Show to our Regional Events Calendar

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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