Transcript Slide 1

Wisconsin Rapids Community Theatre, Inc.
Arts in the Community
FACTS:
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Arts contribute more than any other form of entertainment or recreation, direct and
indirect, to local economy
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Each $1.00 contributed to the arts generates $13.00 additional money in
economic impact
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Tourists who come for cultural events stay an extra day in the city and spend 50%
more
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Arts help attract new business to a city by
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attracting and fostering high-quality talent
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allowing a greater retention of entertainment dollars
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fostering greater diversity
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creating a vibrant city center
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There is a direct correlation between involvement in the arts and increased success
of students
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Arts are essential to the long-term success of a city
In order to be successful, an arts community must have:
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Holistic Vision
Leadership
Marketing
Infrastructure
which includes:
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high quality offerings
premium institutions
diversity of offerings
multiple offerings for each segment of audience
public art of great quality
adequate venues to accommodate many types of art
uniqueness to set the community apart
What do we do?
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WRCT is the only organization in Wisconsin Rapids to offer live theatre
performed by local residents.
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An estimated 4,000 patrons attend WRCT productions each year.
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Approximately 200 people are involved as cast, crew and volunteers on
WRCT’s four annual productions.
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Over the past 30 years, WRCT has provided a constant source of
entertainment to greater Wisconsin Rapids area residents.
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From a first season of 13 performances, WRCT now offers over 25
performances each year. In the 2007-2008 season, WRCT presented over
40 performances and events, including 7 productions ranging from fully
staged productions to staged play readings.
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WRCT offers performing and meeting space to anyone in the community
Recommendations
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The arts and business communities need to work together to:
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create a holistic strategy
set specific objectives
create regional marketing plan
build cooperation between the arts (without sacrificing independence)
engage government policy makers
determine how much money is needed over what time period
identify sources of funding (i.e., sales tax, use tax, bond, private sector,
philanthropy)
Include arts in all efforts to improve the city!
Source of Information
“Evaluating the Link Between Arts & Business”
Business case study conducted by The North Highland Company
on behalf of the
Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce
November 29, 2001