A Method to the Madness: Creating a Theatre Season that Balances the Pursuits of Art and Patronage

Dimitriadis, Elsa

Atlanta, Ga. : Savannah College of Art and Design

2012-03

Thesis (M.A.) -- Arts Administration

Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Arts Administration

Includes bibliographical references (p.54-56).

This thesis examines the play selection process for creating a theatre season and applies the methodology of multiple attribute decision making matrices in order to balance the need for artistic expression and patronage. Systems for theatre season planning are not taught and theatre administrators are left to create their own or navigate the process uniquely each year. In order to identify common participants in the theatre season selection process, ascertain approaches that are often employed, and enumerate factors that are considered when choosing a season, a random sample (n=200) was selected from a list of 504 nonprofit theatres in the US. Respondents included artistic directors, technical directors, costuming supervisors and marketing directors. Survey results showed that the decision makers and processes for season planning vary greatly from company to company. Data revealed that many factors drive this decision making process, which include, but are not limited to, a responsibility to a mission statement, regional interests, or a commitment to producing new works. The analysis of the data culminated in the application of a multiple attribute decision making matrix, or multi-attribute evaluation. Using this customizable tool, criteria for a successful season can be weighted and applied mathematically to each possible work being considered for production in order to create a ranking of options for a well-balanced season. This method can be used by committees as well as individuals and can assist in creating a theatre season that encourages an approach of values based patron support.

CHAIR: Corporandy, Sarah C.

Kelsey, Patrick

Fastring, Danielle R.

English

Arts Administration

Text

PDF : 77 p.

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