Date of Award

2024

Degree Name

Leadership Studies

College

College of Education and Professional Development

Type of Degree

Ed.D.

Document Type

Dissertation

First Advisor

Dr. Eugenia Lambert, Committee Chairperson

Second Advisor

Dr. Bobbi Nicholson

Third Advisor

Dr. Patrick Tuite

Abstract

The purpose of the qualitative narrative study is to better understand the innovative strategies and programs used by regional theaters to bring their audiences and revenues back to pre-pandemic levels in a post-pandemic world. 11 current artistic leaders from across the United States were interviewed for this study using a semi-structured interview protocol. The leaders chosen for this study had been associated with a regional theater from the onset of the Covid-19 shutdowns through the various stages of re-opening thereafter. Nine themes emerged from the data: (1) Loyalty; (2) Financial Stability; (3) Adapting and Staying Relevant; (4) Navigating Obstacles; (5) Racial Reckoning; (6) Self-Care Paradigm Shift; (7) Optimism and Hope; (8) Audience Growth/Subscription Models; (9) Forward-Thinking Leadership/New Ideas. The findings support several recommendations for regional theaters looking to ensure their sustainability and survival including the creation of an endowment, the programming of aspirational seasons and the production of astonishing work, an update to or elimination of the subscription model, the creation of an optimistic and enthusiastic culture, the hiring of exceptional new leadership, and the exploration of partnerships with other arts organizations as well as the exploration of entrepreneurial opportunities and other non-traditional, outside-of-the-box thinking. Further research suggestions include conducting a case study of one theater to unlock a greater amount of data to be analyzed; exploring the current role of philanthropy in theater amongst younger generations; and researching the ways that a theater’s education program may help serve its mission as well as help its finances

Subject(s)

Theater.

Leadership -- Education.

COVID-19 (Disease)

Theater -- Drama.

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