April 27, 2020 by Michael Hodgett

The Performing Arts Post COVID-19: A discussion paper

Behavioural shifts, Canada, Communications, Coronavirus or COVID-19, Cultural organization, Dance or Ballet, Digital strategy, Economy, Finance / crowdfunding, Innovations, Live Events, Opera, Orchestra, Research, Risk management, Theatre, Vaccine

By Erika Beatty and Michael Hodgett: “Performing arts organizations face an existential threat from physical distancing, the very measure needed to end the pandemic: live performances were stopped abruptly and seasons were canceled, creating a deep chasm in budgets and a break in the relationship between artist and audience. Performers are sidelined, inflicting uncertainty and hardship on artists and managers alike. How should performing arts leaders think about when and how it will be possible to present live events again?

The answers to these questions depend on the lifecycle of the coronavirus pandemic and on public health, medical and societal responses. What arts organizations can expect and what they should do to prepare for the post lockdown world is the subject of this discussion paper.  

How we will exit the pandemic: The Hammer and the Dance

  • Phase 1  “The Hammer”: Emergency shut-down

  • Phase 2 “The Dance”: Test, track and trace 

  • Phase 3 “State of (Relative) Security”: Mass vaccination and immunity

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF LIVE PERFORMANCE

  • What will be needed to ensure audiences feel safe, and that they are safe at live events?

  • What other changes might performing arts organizations and venue operators need to adapt to? How can digital technology help?

  • What are some implications for performing arts organizations in Canada? 



What We Think: Full Article