Date of Award

Spring 5-2021

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Degree Program

Fine Arts

Department

Arts Administration

Major Professor

James Marchant

Second Advisor

Kellie Chavez Greene

Third Advisor

Clare Burovac

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had dramatic effects throughout the economy, but few industries have been hit harder than the performing arts. Theatres face unique challenges, including lost earned and contributed revenue, navigating virtual platforms, and how to sustain their audiences, who are distant both physically and mentally. This study seeks to explore the ways in which three mid-size nonprofit theatres work to overcome these challenges and adapt to the new and ever-changing landscape of live performance. At the same time, the Black Lives Matter movement and the demand for more equity across institutions of all types have placed additional social pressures on live performance venues. This has compounded the economic strain from the pandemic, as these venues seek to reinvent and revitalize their programs. This study compares fiscal concerns, organizational changes, programming innovation, and other strategies used to withstand the pandemic, while also examining an equitable path forward for these organizations.

Rights

The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.

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