Industry Pro Newsletter: Unions Questioned at Kennedy Center, UK Artists Fight Against AI Use
Broadway Alaska pauses, UK leaders back arts education, Lincoln Center gets new leadership, and the "Theatre Facts 2023" report.
By: Alex Freeman Mar. 24, 2025
From the financial strains detailed in TCG’s "Theatre Facts 2023" report to leadership transitions at major institutions like Lincoln Center Theater and Theatre Horizon, the industry grapples with economic realities while seeking innovative paths forward. Simultaneously, the sector confronts evolving issues such as the impact of AI on creative rights in the UK and debates over labor costs in the US.
SUBSCRIBE NOW - Want this newsletter delivered to your inbox every Monday? Make sure and subscribe using the form at the top or bottom of this page to join the Industry Pro mailing list.
Come on Out. Connect. Collaborate!
Join us in Toronto when the Canadian Arts Marketing, Development and Ticketing Conference convenes for a uniquely collaborative event.
With so much change going on in the world and in our industry, it’s crucial to know what is working now and what will work going forward.
Employment Opportunity
Head of Video - Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Reporting to the Technical Director, the Head of Video will maintain the quality and integrity of all Video, stage and related elements for Tobin Center productions, presentations, and rentals, and will sustain a working understanding of the theater and its procedures and equipment. This position will involve aspects of all departments (Electric, Carpentry, Audio, Props, and Wardrobe). As the position involves the running of shows, the employee will work evenings, weekends as needed and over 40 hours per week, especially during load-in, technical rehearsals, and load out.
Industry Trends
American Theatre: Out of the Frying Pan: Theatre Facts 2023
The Theatre Facts 2023 report reveals that while expenses have risen for non-profit theatres, revenue has not kept pace. The study indicates a continued struggle for many organizations to recover from pandemic-related losses. Data shows that contributed income has increased, but not enough to offset the growing gap between income and expenses. The report emphasizes the ongoing financial challenges faced by the American theatre sector.
Broadway/New York
Deadline: Lincoln Center Theater Names Maria Manuela Goyanes & Mike Schleifer Co-Managing Directors
Lincoln Center Theater has announced Maria Manuela Goyanes and Mike Schleifer as its new co-Managing Directors. Goyanes, formerly of Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, and Schleifer, who has been with LCT for several years, will share administrative leadership. They will work alongside Artistic Director André Bishop. This new leadership structure aims to guide the theater into its next phase.
Regional
Mydera Taliah Robinson Appointed As Executive Director Of Theatre Horizon
Theatre Horizon has appointed Mydera Taliah Robinson as its new Executive Director. Robinson brings a wealth of experience in arts administration and community engagement to the role. She will be responsible for leading the organization's strategic vision and day-to-day operations.
Broadway Alaska Announces Operations Pause, Cancels Remaining Shows
Broadway Alaska has announced an immediate pause in operations, resulting in the cancellation of all remaining scheduled performances. The organization cited unforeseen financial difficulties as the primary reason for this decision. Ticket holders are being advised to contact the point of purchase for refund information. The company expressed regret for the impact this has on its patrons and community partners.
Trump Questions Use of Equity Actors at Kennedy Center
In a Kennedy Center Board meeting, President Trump expressed concern regarding the use of Equity actors at the Kennedy Center. Specifically, his concern relates to the cost of employing these actors. He questioned whether non-union performers could be used to reduce expenses.
American Theatre: Shonali Burke Appointed Managing Director of People's Light
People's Light has appointed Shonali Burke as its new Managing Director. Burke will begin her position on April 15. She comes to People's Light after serving in senior leadership roles at several arts institutions. Burke brings extensive experience in strategic planning, fundraising, and organizational development to her new role.
International
The Independent: Performing arts bosses protest government's AI plans
Performing arts leaders are protesting the UK government's AI plans. These plans would allow AI companies to use copyrighted material to train AI models unless creatives opt out. Leaders from organizations like the Royal Shakespeare Company and National Theatre argue this infringes on the moral and economic rights of artists. They are urging the government to protect creative professionals' rights and implement transparency regarding the use of copyrighted material by AI models.
The Stage: Theatre leaders welcome plan for national centre for arts and music education
Theatre leaders have expressed their support for the proposed national centre for arts and music education. This initiative aims to provide enhanced arts education opportunities for young people across the UK. Leaders believe that such a centre will significantly benefit the sector's future by nurturing talent and increasing accessibility to arts education.
Missed our last few newsletters?
This week, BroadwayWorld and Ticketmaster announced a new partnership, and we’re taking a realistic look at the arts' ongoing recovery from the pandemic. Plus, we've got updates on Broadway's new "In Memoriam" and some positive labor news. Regionally, we're covering the happenings at the Kennedy Center, theaters tackling financial hurdles, and leadership changes. On the international front, we're highlighting the incredible resilience of Ukrainian artists and a potential game-changer for England's cultural funding.
March 10, 2025 - NEA Reverses Course on Gender Policy, Rockwell to Renovate the Laurie Beechman
We delve into the shifting tides of arts funding, from the NEA's controversial policy changes to the crucial need for increased support in NYC public schools. We also examine the profound impact of political appointments on cultural institutions, as seen in the "Hamilton" cancellation and the Kennedy Center's board changes. Additionally, we honor the legacy of a theatrical giant with the passing of Athol Fugard.
This week's newsletter is packed with everything from big legal battles to the nitty-gritty of box office numbers. We're diving into new legal rulings around drag and AI, and figuring out what's next for marketing now that social media's changing. Plus, we've got the scoop on Broadway's winter wins, a new developmental agreement, and a look at how the arts factor into London’s ten-year plans.
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
Want this newsletter in your inbox every week? Subscribe here.
Want more information about marketing options with BroadwayWorld? Request a media kit here and a member of our sales and marketing team will reach out promptly.
Comments
Videos