How to show your love of the arts
“Art is a nation’s most precious heritage. For it is in our works of art that we reveal to ourselves and to others the inner vision which guides us as a nation. And where there is no vision, the people perish.”
–Lyndon Johnson, on signing into existence the National Endowment on the Arts
Most of us think of “support” for the arts in terms of making a donation, especially since many arts organizations are non-profits. Donations can account for half of the operating budget of a theatre company, for instance, so these are prized, and doubly so when your company will match it! Dropping your spare bills and change in the donations jar when you go to a movie at the Edmond Town Hall, or a free concert at Dickenson Park, is a welcome way to help out too. Through our contributions, we ensure that the programs we value will be around for the future.
Maybe you don’t realize that simply buying your tickets early is an effective way to show you care. Often there are discounts available to those who buy early, or become subscription holders. As people wait until the last day to buy tickets, behind the scenes, producers are under stress wondering if they are going to break even at all! Registering early for a free event at the library, or a summer camp, makes a big difference since events get cancelled if there isn’t enough response.
Volunteering to help out a non-profit makes any event more fun, and has it’s perks besides making you feel good. Become a volunteer at a theater, and you could see every show for free. Volunteer for a board position, and you could help steer the direction of a non-profit. All it costs you is your time, and maybe some gasoline. An event like the Newtown Arts Festival depends on many volunteers. Every person heading a committee has specific skills that make them perfect for the role they play, but we will need even more during the festival weekend.
Help to spread the word about performances you enjoy, encourage your friends to go, or better yet make it a night out with them. The advent of social networking makes it so easy to spread the word about everything we Like. Why not go further? Our opinions matter to our friends, so add a comment to posts you see and contribute to the virtual dialogue.
Advertising in a playbill is a great way for a business to get involved, and there are plenty of opportunities here in town. Alternatively, businesses who become Sponsors also get recognition, and build “good will” in our community. Right now, our performing arts organizations are seeking sponsors and advertisers for their upcoming seasons, be proactive and give them a call.