The future of the arts

摘要

This is a provocative appraisal of the arts sector from someone working tirelessly from within it; Kaiser is a seasoned arts professional with tenures at esteemed institutions such as the Royal Opera House and American Ballet Theatre. Straight-talking and littered with examples, this book is centred on the US market but has appeal for a much broader audience. Kaiser leads the reader from the post-war heyday of arts accessibility, diversity and ubiquity through to the perfect storm of economic, social and cultural changes that threaten the industry's survival. Much has been written on the revolution in the way arts and entertainment are consumed and distributed and Kaiser takes an in-depth look at the impact of new technologies, the digitalisation of the entertainment industry and the shift towards 'on-demand' viewing, on the traditional arts. He references the growing preference for 'bite-sized' consumption that has led to abridged performances of classic works and the desire of younger generations to participate in their arts experience; a desire that has prompted an explosion of immersive, experiential events, multi-media shows and celebrity performers emerging from amateur videos trending online. The old army of ardent arts supporters willing to pay for an annual subscription to their favourite - and highly revered - arts venue, has all but vanished.