Let’s Work Together to Help Live Theater Thrive

(This Community Post was written by Embracing Arlington Arts.)

Yes, live performances at theaters have begun again. Good news for patrons, good news for actors and crews, and good news for the industry overall, right? Well, yes and no as COVID is proving to be a powerful enemy. “The show must go on” is still the mantra — unless a cast or crew member tests positive. Then the curtain must fall for about a week — incurring huge financial losses for theaters, including paying the contracted professionals and refunding ticketholders. Production costs also now include purchasing testing equipment which can run into tens of thousands of dollars each month for larger theaters.

How can we help them continue to keep their doors open?

Go see a show and urge others to do the same! Word of mouth is the best means of filling theater seats!

Donate if you can! No donation is too small OR too large to keep these critical entities open, vibrant and successful.

Volunteer! Check with your favorite theaters and see if they need ushers, ticket takers, or other volunteers.

Reconsider Refunds! If you bought a ticket for a show that unfortunately has to be cancelled, consider either donating the refund back to the theater or taking a credit for a future show in lieu of receiving a refund directly.

Remember — a successful arts and theater industry translates into more economic activity, increased restaurant sales, and healthier seniors, students, Veterans and many others who benefit from exposure to the arts.