HR&A Advisors’ Post

Continually facinated by this ongoing story. The Milwaukee Repertory Theater's successful $78 million fundraising effort for its expansion and renovation project contrasts sharply with the broader challenges faced by many non-profit arts institutions in the post-pandemic economy. While the Rep showcases a best-case scenario of robust community and donor support enabling ambitious growth, other organizations struggle with financial strain, reduced revenues, and a focus on survival rather than expansion. This disparity highlights the diverse impacts of the pandemic on the non-profit arts sector, with the Milwaukee Rep's success story being more the exception than the rule, as many institutions continue to navigate economic recovery and the quest for stability. How is the support of the arts in your community?

What kinds of shows or art would you like to see in the Halifax region? The Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is doing a study of its places and galleries and asking people whether anything needs to be added. The Municipality would love to hear the thoughts of newcomers to Nova Scotia. Please consider filling out this survey, which asks about the kind of events you enjoy and the types of arts spaces you wish existed in HRM. https://lnkd.in/eEpBMvR4

Preliminary Theatre Design Unproduced Concept One of the things we’re most proud of is that we’ve gotten to construct 7 theaters around the world to house our shows. This video rendering is a fun glimpse into what an early vision for one of our theatres might look like. While the space is completely bespoke and it already takes into consideration the site, the construction process, and the technical requirements of the show, it is also a completely blank canvas. At this point more than a theatre designed for the show, it is a space envisioned to house a creation. The big-picture ideas for how artists and audiences will interact within the space have been planned and designed, just as the overall concept is beginning to take shape. Video renderings like this inspire our teams and tease the imaginations of our clients and partners by capturing a space rooted in reality that begins to unlock the possibilities for how designers, artists, producers, and technicians can come together to collaborate and create. Drum music from The Han Show by Andi Pema and Zoltan Keresztes Kresztes #dragone #makethemdream #concept #theatre #liveentertainment #entertainmentarts #architecture #theatredesign #theatreconstruction #constructionrendering

Our job as theatre planners and designers goes way beyond getting you drawings and specs. It's also our job to help you understand this weird world of theatre and why artists/operators need what they need. #education #collaborate #helpeachother #theatredesign #theatre

There is no one-size-fits-all design to accommodate all the world’s staging needs. From theaters and banquet halls to educational facilities and arenas -- every venue, every group and every production has its own set of criteria and needs. Stability and strength are critical, but portability and user-friendly convenience are also essential. Here are four trends that bring increased flexibility and functionality to the performing arts arena: https://lnkd.in/g_q-qkiP

Fantastic Arts Beasts and Where to Find Them. - Can Suffolk Arts survive a 100% cut, and what are the ramifications for the Creative and Cultural Sector. (CCS) The answer to the first question seems to be no, at least not in their current form, leaving a consumer driven, sponsorship model to dissect the remains of this Fantastic Arts Beast. And that raises the key question across the CCS, why does the sector continue to under-performe in the political arena. Given the plethora and robustness of a myriad of global and EU reports that link the CCS to creatively and innovation, all of which name the sector as the key and core supplier of content for digital media content, how has it come to pass that support for the sector can be cut so completely? The evidence clearly supports the economic and social necessity of funding the sector, so why does has the message not gotten through? As a recognised expert in the CCS I belive the core issues are a naissante and incomplete understanding of the sector, has, & continues to play, a significant part in not getting the message out. The CCS itself finds it difficult to clearly populate the connectivity between local theatre and popcorn cinema and even more so between dance and digital media. This is primarily due to a number of key factors; The complexity nature and interconnectedness of the CCS to other sector's. Ring-fence of all sector's in terms of ideation and innovative practices. An oudated understanding of profit or benefit as fiscal only. Work like that conducted by Culture Action Europe recently on the Pro-CCS project addressees some of these issues and the opening chapter, for which I was the core author, goes a long way to connecting the dots. However connecting the dotes for ourselves (CCS) is not the same as doing it for a wider society. Some opportunities may lay in layering the sector over more complex models such as the models for donut of circular economics. However we must also look to gaining a greater and more widespread traction with the public at large and there political representation. The CCs needs to adopt new methods of communication, it needs to talk to and convince the people who remain unconvinced. The CCS needs to let more people know about these Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

#DEI in the Performing Arts: Can Excellence and Relevance Coexist? The performing arts have long grappled with the complex relationship between diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and artistic excellence. While some argue that these two concepts are mutually exclusive, history tells a different story. What does the data tell us? A Historical Perspective on DEI in Orchestras Orchestras in the United States have a rich and complex history, dating back to the mid-19th century. While initially struggling to establish themselves, they eventually flourished under the leadership of figures like Theodore Thomas. Thomas envisioned orchestras as high-quality, elite ensembles, attracting upper-class audiences, and securing financial sustainability through philanthropy. However, this vision came at a cost: the exclusion of underrecognized voices and perspectives. Despite the challenges, Black-led orchestras emerged in cities like New Orleans, Philadelphia, and Chicago. However, these ensembles faced significant financial and racial barriers, ultimately leading to their demise. This historical context highlights the systemic racism and lack of inclusivity that have plagued the orchestral world for centuries. The Ongoing Struggle for DEI Despite some progress, orchestras continue to struggle with diversifying their ranks. This lack of representation not only limits the artistic potential of these ensembles but also alienates potential audiences. The question remains: can orchestras achieve both artistic excellence and relevance in today's diverse society? The Path Forward Moving forward, orchestras must actively embrace DEI and accountability that go beyond superficial gestures. This includes: Committing to long-term, systemic change: DEI should not be seen as a quick/additive fix but as an ongoing process that requires sustained effort and resources. Building community partnerships: Engaging with underrecognized communities through educational programs, engagement initiatives, and accessibility is crucial for building (yes building) relevance and fostering a sense of belonging. Conclusion The history of orchestras (and other performing arts orgs) in the United States demonstrates the challenges and opportunities associated with achieving both artistic excellence and relevance. By embracing DEI as a core value and implementing meaningful initiatives, we can create access and connecting points across the performing arts sector. Challenging? Yes. Impossible? No. Respectfully, Dr. Roque Diaz #DEI #PerformingArts #Relevance #Excellence #DatatoProvideAwareness

"A picture is worth a thousand words". Hand rendering of a beautiful primary bedroom suite. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Showhouse 2020 Design by: Peace Design #handrenderings #handdrawn #handrender #interiordesignillustration #architecturalillustration #luxuryinteriordesignrendering #illustration

NCS is excited to welcome Gustavo Padrino of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts to discuss "Inclusivity in the Performing Arts". Join us on July 10th to dive into strategies performing arts centers can implement to become more inclusive and accessible. To register or find out more information, contact Maria Ramos at mramos@neuro-cs.com. Alternative Text: The background of the image is white and has an abstract green border in various shades of green toward the right side of the image. Toward the top left corner is the NCS logo followed by a section of black text that reads, "Embracing Neurodiversity: From Awareness to Action 2024 Webinar Series". Next, within a light green button shape is black bolded text that reads, "Inclusivity in the Performing Arts". Below that, is a black visual icon of a calendar followed by text that reads, "Wednesday, July 10, 2024". Next is a black visual icon of a clock followed by black text that reads, "1:00 - 2:00 PM (EST)". Below that, in a light green button shape is black bolded text that reads, "SPEAKER:", a picture of Gustavo Padrino, and black text that reads, "Gustavu Padrino", "Broward Center for the Performing Arts" and "Community Engagement Manager". Lastly, toward the right side of the image is a circular picture taken during an inclusive performance where two people are looking at each other. The person on the left is smiling at the person on the right who is clapping. . . . . #NeuroConsultingSolutions #NCS #neurodiverse #neurodivergent #neurodiversity #neurodiversidad #neurodivergence #ally #supporter #advocate #awareness #acceptance #neurodiversityawareness #neurodiversityacceptance #inclusive #inclusion #inclusivity #diverse #accessible #accessibility #inclusicityingtheperformingarts #performingarts #performingartscenter #webinar #inclusivewebinar #freewebinar

Reflecting on my journey with La Crosse Community Theatre's expansion into the old church building, the question "What did I get myself into?" feels particularly relevant. I’ve embarked on something both exciting and daunting. This historic space is full of potential, but realizing it will take more than just optimism and a fresh coat of paint. When we chose this church, it felt like a perfect blend of La Crosse’s history and our theatre’s future. The building has charm and character, but it’s also full of quirks—architectural features that weren’t designed with modern theatre in mind. As I settle in, I’m beginning to grasp the challenges ahead. Walking through these halls, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of what’s ahead. The building is full of potential—to become a hub for creativity and a gathering place for our community. But right now, it’s all just potential. The real work is just beginning. We have big plans, but they’re still just plans—ideas waiting to be transformed into reality. From designing new spaces to ensuring this historic building meets modern needs, there’s a lot to do. It’s a little overwhelming, but also exciting, knowing we're on the brink of something transformative for La Crosse Community Theatre. The road ahead will be challenging, with moments of doubt and unexpected surprises. But that’s part of the journey—navigating the unknown, adapting to challenges, and staying focused on my goals. This project will take time, effort, and collaboration. I’ll need to test ideas and learn as I go, but I’m committed to seeing it through because I believe in the potential of this space. So here I am, at the beginning of a long and winding journey. I don’t know exactly what the future holds, but I’m confident this is a journey worth taking. There’s a lot of work to be done, but also a lot to look forward to. This building has the potential to become something truly special, and I’m ready to do the work to make that happen. In the end, what did I get myself into? A project full of challenges and possibilities—one that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I’ve only just begun, but I’m excited to see where this journey will take me.