Performing Arts Attendance
Residents Eager for More Arts Investments in Their Communities
Why is it important?
The performing arts are essential to human experience. Art events and activities enrich lives, from childhood through adulthood, helping people interpret and explore their relationships amongst each other and with the world. Arts enhance aesthetic pleasure for area residents and make the Sierra Nevada even more attractive to visitors. Arts festivals generate about $11 in economic activity for every dollar of cost. While the outcome of this is beneficial, it is imperative for arts programs to receive initial funding and support thereafter. Sierra Nevada residents are eager to see more arts investment in their communities. In a recent survey of Sierra Nevada voters, 50 percent indicated their interest in having more “cultural resources such as theatres and the arts” in their county.11
How are we doing?
Unfortunately, few organizations maintain records on annual attendance figures. For many, time and cost issues present barriers to compiling this information. Without this information, it is difficult for venues and theaters to seek outside funding to help sustain performing arts programs. The number of attendees is vital in proving the worth of community arts programs. Organizations that do keep records confirm that attendance at performing arts events in the Sierra is increasing.
11 Sierra Nevada Voter Survey conducted in November, 1995, by J. Moore Methods, Inc., located in Sacramento, California.
