New Jersey Theatres Prove Resourceful in Tough Economy

Several New Jersey theatres have faced budget cuts and loss of grants during these tough economic times. While some theatres have been forced to cut back on the number of productions this season, other have used resourcefulness and assistance of their employees in order to push through a difficult season.

One such production that has reinvented its wheel in the climate of tight budgets is the current TWELFTH NIGHT, now playing at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey.  Much of the set is made from shredded strips of paper. While still creating an effective set, the paper has allowed the company to save money that would typically be spent on technical aspects of the show.

Companies are relying on other aspects of performance in order to cut costs. An effective move made by companies has been to produce shows consisting of smaller casts, when possible. When not producing the smaller shows, companies such as New Jersey's Goodspeed have turned to time tested musicals that are well-known, audience favorites. Musicals such as 42nd Street and Camelot have become popular choices.

Still other companies have relied on the dedication of their employees as cost saving techniques. Employee members at George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick have agreed to a 5% to 10% salary cut since an expecTed Grant has been put on the backburner.

Even the well-established companies are feeling the effects of the economy. Playwrights Theater in Madison, NJ has worked on cutting back costs by choosing smaller casts. He has also worked with other companies feeling the financial strain by co-producing the first two shows of the season. Artistic director John Pietrowski said, "We knew what we were up against. It's not like we're a bunch of dolts around here. The majority of people I work with in the arts and theater are very savvy business people."

To read the full article from the New York Times, click here.

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