Enhancing Access to Performing Arts: A Holistic Approach

The performing arts, whether in the form of concerts, theatrical performances, or dance, have been an integral part of human culture for centuries. However, making these arts more accessible to a wider audience remains a challenge. This issue is not only about physical access but also about enhancing the overall engagement and appreciation of the audience. Here’s a comprehensive approach to making the performing arts more accessible and appreciated by a broader audience.

The Disconnect Between Entertainment and Art

The current preference for sports over performing arts, particularly in school systems, is a major hurdle. While sports teams continued to play during the pandemic, performing arts organizations faced significant challenges. This disparity is partly due to the perception that performing arts are not as entertaining or valuable as other forms of entertainment. However, this view overlooks the true value and depth of the performing arts. As someone passionate about contemporary paintings and classical music, I believe that entertainment and art are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the performing arts, when done right, can be both entertaining and deeply enriching.

Economic and Cultural Barriers

One of the primary barriers to accessibility is the cultural perception of the performing arts. Certain forms of performing arts, such as opera or classical plays, are often stigmatized, leading to a limited audience. For instance, the assumption that entertainment does not equate to high art is a misguided one. As Sir Thomas Beecham noted, there has always been and will continue to be a fixed number of people who are truly dedicated to the performing arts. To address this, we need to promote cultural education from an early age.

Developing Cultural Appetites

Educational Enrichment: Teaching children about different cultural experiences, including opera, modern dance, and classical music, should be part of the school curriculum. This can be accomplished by providing resources and experiences that cater to a diverse range of performing arts. Reducing Stigma: Breaking down the stigma associated with certain forms of performing arts is crucial. We need to encourage a more inclusive and diverse audience, and artists themselves have a role to play in this. Instead of viewing themselves as belonging to a higher echelon, artists should embrace a wider audience. Addressing Boredom and Attention Span: Our society is saturated with constant stimuli, and attention spans are better spent on reflective and engaging art forms. Performing arts, with their scheduled pauses and reflective moments, offer a unique and necessary experience that other forms of entertainment cannot.

Tackling Ticket Pricing and Perceived Value

The issue of ticket pricing is another significant factor. While low-income individuals may face financial barriers, many choose not to attend due to the perceived value of experiencing the performing arts. In the US, there is a strong link between commoditization and the appreciation of the arts. When we value the financial cost over the experiential value, we inadvertently devalue the arts. High-quality theatrical performances like Hamilton are popular, but even so, the experience is not fully comparable to the financial investment.

As such, a reevaluation of pricing strategies and marketing approaches is essential. Retail giant Amazon's strategy of Amazon Prime provides a model. Rather than charging a premium for individual experiences, a subscription model that offers a broader range of experiences can be more accessible to a wider audience.

Conclusion

To enhance the accessibility and appreciation of the performing arts, we need a multi-faceted approach involving cultural education, economic strategies, and societal perceptions. By promoting a broader cultural education, reducing stigma, and addressing attention span and boredom, we can create a more engaged and diverse audience. Additionally, reevaluating pricing models can make high-quality performing arts experiences more accessible to everyone, ensuring that the arts continue to enrich our lives and societies.