The number of pre-recorded and virtual productions increased by more than 250%.
As a result of the current pandemic, the arts and cultural sector, especially the dance field, has been one of the hardest hit industries. Dance organizations were among the first to shutter performance venues and will be among the last industries to resume operations and recover. Dance/USA, the national service organization for professional dance, today released a new report, The Impact of COVID-19 on the Field of Dance: Part II, examining the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the dance sector in the United States.
In March 2020 Dance/USA launched a survey to assess the initial impact of the pandemic on the dance field. Today's follow-up study measures the actual effects of COVID-19 and reflects the experiences of dance organizations and individuals working in dance. "This new report reflects just how devastating COVID-19 has been on the dance field," commented Dance/USA Executive Director Kellee Edusei. "The results also show that federal relief programs were vital and financially sustained many in the dance community during the height of the pandemic. Additionally, the report demonstrates just how resilient and creative the dance field is. Many took this opportunity to reimagine new pathways forward, and this is why the performing arts sector will recover renewed and refreshed." "While dancemakers and dance organizations are hanging on and will rebound, it will take time to recover," said Dance/USA Director of Research Shakira Segundo. "As the field recovers, I am excited to see what will come and how dancemakers evolve to reach new audiences."Dance/USA's goal in administering this survey and analysis of the field is to be able to make the necessary connections between individuals and organizations in the field, to provide access to needed resources, and continue to advocate on behalf of the field for much needed relief.
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