Lessons from the Field
In this section of artsmanager.org cases written by arts managers in the field are presented. The following Lessons from the Field are written by Michael M. Kaiser, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This section will be regularly updated with additional cases from Mr. Kaiser and other arts leaders.
Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Foundation
New York, NY
In 1991 it appeared that the company founded by Alvin Ailey in 1954 was in jeopardy. With a deficit of over $1.5 million, the world’s largest African-American cultural institution was near bankruptcy. An overhaul of the board of directors and a major institutional marketing campaign were largely responsible for its successful revival.
New York, NY
In 1995 American Ballet Theatre’s accumulated deficit of $5 million put the organization in a major financial crisis. By 1998 the organization was able to retire its deficit by focusing on creating new repertoire and educational programs, increasing its presence in New York City, and aggressively marketing its artistic product.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Washington, D.C.
In 2001, the Kennedy Center was financially stable and not in need of a “turnaround”. For the next two years a focus on presenting distinctive arts and educational programming helped the organization more fully realize its mission as the nation’s center for the performing arts.
Kansas City, KS
In 1985 the Kansas City Ballet was on the brink of bankruptcy. By 1987 it enjoyed artistic and financial prosperity. A newcomer to arts leadership was able to create a turnaround by restructuring the board of directors, increasing public awareness, and developing innovative fundraising and programming.
London, England
In the midst of a major renovation, faced with a projected $30 million accumulated deficit, and public calls for an end to the organization, the new executive director of the Royal Opera House faced a seemingly insurmountable array of challenges. A reinvention of public perception and a targeted fundraising strategy were needed to restore the health of the world famous institution.
Alvin Ailey