Back in March 2009, I decided to figure out what’s happening in the Ottawa theatre scene and to determine if there is an opportunity for me to make a meaningful contribution to its success and growth. I think such an opportunity exists.
In Ottawa, there are plenty of talented and dedicated people already working in and around theatre. There is also a committed audience and plenty of potential audience, including younger cohorts.
Crucially, there is also a burgeoning new media scene keen on covering theatre (and the arts generally: check out my blogroll at the bottom of this page). There are even indications that the old guard media will pay attention, if there is real story to cover (for example, click here or click here).
Moreover, the other arts also appear to be flourishing, are also looking to engage with the wider arts community, and there is a palatable sense of excitement and opportunity everywhere. Ottawa’s renaissance is upon us.
So what, if anything, does Ottawa theatre need and how can I contribute to Ottawa’s renaissance?
On my view, Ottawa theatre needs:
1) A business model, a business plan, and money.
2) A company that regularly develops, produces, and promotes a variety of local talent and stories.
3) A company that engages and involves other local art and artists.
My hunch is that a money-making business model can be built around a company that does both 2 and 3. Over the next little while, I will be investigating this hunch and I will keep you posted about what I discover.
Do you have any thoughts about theatre and / or the arts in Ottawa? If you are a reader from another city, do you have any thoughts, ideas, or stories which may be of use to me?
All thoughts warmly received and always appreciated.
For more posts like this, click here.
Mare
October 13, 2009
I believe your goal of involving other arts and artists – or cross-pollination – is the key to a sustained community investment in the arts.
Space55 Theatre Ensemble in Phoenix, AZ (US) produces or hosts: documentary films, a book club, both long and short-form improvisation, flamenco dancers, First Friday artists, 7-Min in Heaven, 10-Min Play Showcase, and their mainstage season. When the theatre is dark, writers and acting coaches host forums and acting classes.
To their credit, the ensemble members at Space55 are always looking for opportunities to further infuse themselves into the community. Perhaps of equal, or greater, importance is their commitment to enrich the lives of the first time patron as well as the people they just can’t seem to push out the door.
sterlinglynch
October 13, 2009
Thanks Mare!
Never give-up the chance to post a link: Space55 Theatre Ensemble.
I’m not sure how or why the silo mentality took hold of the arts but it doesn’t make sense from any perspective. The arts need each other for inspiration and for audiences. As far as I know, the most vibrant moments in history always involved substantial cross-pollination.
Michael Maupin
October 14, 2009
Sterling, check out the scene in Paducah, KY:
http://www.ilistpaducah.com/site/index/
A couple years ago I read about either a theater or repertory filmhouse that partnered with local restaurants/caterers to have events with food and wine along with shows or arts events.
The point is, draw audiences in with a comfort factor: make the space inviting and keep contact with other artists and arts organizations.
The problem with the Twin Cities area (where I live) is too much separation. The closest we come to collaborative efforts is our wonderful annual Fringe Festival.
Cheers, Mike
sterlinglynch
October 14, 2009
Mike, thanks for your comment and the link! Very much appreciated.
The fact of separation seems to be an endemic issue, however, from now on, I am going to characterize it as an opportunity. The first person or persons who figure out a way to bring the different groups together will be creating a unique and rewarding experience. I think your observation about the “comfort factor” is crucial to facilitating this process. By catering to creature comforts, it may also open the space for more challenging art as well.
Dave Charest
October 14, 2009
Sterling,
I agree with your assessment. But also believe it’s not enough.
Let me explain.
Whether we like it or not the internet has turned us all into publishers. Artists now have the tools to reach people like they’ve never done before. Which means we’re no longer reliant on the traditional media to spread the word.
Traditional media is still important. But now we can accomplish more without the middleman.
It’s extremely important that all artist’s start to embrace this fact. Then start conversations with fellow artists and their audience.
To me email is still the most under-used tool. But whatever the medium there needs to be a shift towards sharing and inclusion rather than just the traditional forms of “buy tix”. Or ‘e-blasts’.
Call it audience development or whatever you want. To me it’s simply being human. Once the human face is on the organization it’s easier to learn what needs must be meet to keep the audience coming back again and again.
It’s also important to take responsibility for showing people the value of art. Instead of complaining that people don’t value it.
Nurturing the audience must become part of a long-term strategy. One that continues whether you have a show up or not.
sterlinglynch
October 14, 2009
Thanks, Dave. As is often the case, we are in agreement.
The observation I would like to put the most weight on is your very last line: “Nurturing the audience must become part of a long-term strategy. One that continues whether you have a show up or not.”
We need to create a relationships that extend beyond the run of a show or exhibition (or whatever) and we also need to recognize, as you say, that it is our responsibility to create and nurture those relationships. My hunch: nurturing local talent and stories and collaborating with other local artists is the fertile ground where those relationships can begin — but only as part of a long-term strategy.
sterlinglynch
October 14, 2009
The gist of this Mission Paradox post seems on point.
nadinethornhill
October 14, 2009
“A company that engages and involves other local art and artists”.
Yes! Because as you say, those other art forms will inform and inspire new theatrical creation and vice-versa. Consider also that most artists work (or at least hobby) in more than one form. How exciting for me, an amateur painter, to build lasting relationships with professional artists.
“A company that regularly develops, produces, and promotes a variety of local talent and stories.”
Hell to the yes! The stories I write best are my own or those of people close to me. As such, I can only stand to benefit from the creation of such a company.
sterlinglynch
October 14, 2009
We all stand to benefit, if it is financially feasible.
Get writing, the rough plan is to start sourcing scripts in January ….