Industry Pro Newsletter: State Arts Budgets In Flux, Tony Nominating Committee Announced for 2025-2026

This edition highlights significant developments in industry advocacy and funding, with arts organizations both fighting for increased government support and grappling with budget challenges in various states. We also cover key updates from Broadway, including the new Tony Awards Nominating Committee and local efforts to protect the Times Square theater district, alongside inspiring international news showcasing the resilience of the arts.

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Employment Opportunity

MANAGER - EDUCATION PROGRAMS - McCallum Theatre

The Manager - Education Programs is a key leadership role responsible for the successful planning, coordination, and execution of Palm Desert Choreography Festival launched in 1998 and Open Call Talent Project, produced annually since 1999. This position serves as the central liaison between education and production, also ensuring seamless communication and collaboration across all departments within the theatre. In addition, this manager schedules and oversees individual artist residencies, masterclasses and workshops at McCallum, in local schools, and community organizations. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive individual with a passion for the performing arts and a proven track record in managing complex events and productions. 

Industry Trends

BroadwayWorld Launches All-New Games Center Featuring Broadway Trivia & More

BroadwayWorld has recently unveiled its new Games Center, an interactive platform designed to entertain and challenge theater enthusiasts. This center features a variety of games including Broadway Trivia, The Broadway Match-Up, The Broadway Scramble, and a fast-paced Word Search.

Arts Advocates Head to Capitol Hill to Push for Increased NEA and NEH Funding

Arts advocates recently convened on Capitol Hill to lobby for increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). These advocates aim to secure $209 million for each endowment in FY2026, a modest increase of $2 million. The funding is crucial for supporting state and local arts agencies, cultural organizations, and individual artists, thereby strengthening community creative infrastructures. This initiative underscores the significant economic and cultural contributions of the arts sector, which accounts for $1.2 trillion and 5.4 million jobs in the U.S. economy.

Live Nation Proposes Ticketing Reform in Response to Federal Scrutiny

Live Nation has formally proposed ticketing reform measures in response to federal scrutiny and ongoing concerns within the live entertainment ticketing market. The company, which owns Ticketmaster, submitted its proposals to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Trump administration. Key suggestions include implementing a 20% cap on ticket resale prices, granting artists more control over resales, and strengthening the enforcement of the 2016 BOTS Act. These reforms aim to improve transparency and fairness in the ticket purchasing process for fans and artists.

Broadway/New York

The Tony Awards Reveal 2025-2026 Nominating Committee

The Tony Awards Administration Committee has announced the esteemed 2025-2026 Nominating Committee, a vital group responsible for determining the nominations for Broadway's highest honors. This year's committee comprises 54 theater professionals, including actors, writers, directors, designers, and critics. Members of the committee include Warren Carlyle, Rachel Chavkin, and Lynn Nottage, among others.

The Entertainment Community Fund Joins No Times Square Casino Coalition

The Entertainment Community Fund has officially joined the "No Times Square Casino Coalition," an alliance vehemently opposing the proposed casino development in Times Square. The Fund, which provides essential services for performing arts and entertainment professionals, cites concerns about the potential negative impacts on the cultural and economic ecosystem of the theater district. They argue that a casino would exacerbate existing issues such as increased traffic, crime, and a further commercialization that could detract from the unique character of Broadway. Their involvement underscores a growing unified opposition to the project.

Regional

WMUR: Budget Cuts Hit New Hampshire Public Arts

New Hampshire's public arts sector is facing significant challenges due to recent budget cuts, as reported by WMUR. These cuts are impacting various arts organizations and programs across the state, potentially leading to reduced offerings and operational difficulties. The article highlights the concerns of local arts leaders who emphasize the vital role arts play in community enrichment and economic contribution. These financial reductions are expected to necessitate difficult adjustments for many New Hampshire arts groups.

KQED: California Restores Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund

KQED reports that California has moved to restore the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund, providing crucial financial relief to the state's arts organizations. This fund aims to support fair compensation for performing arts workers, addressing previous shortfalls that impacted many groups. The restoration signals a commitment from the state to bolster the stability of the performing arts sector. This will help ensure artists and arts professionals receive equitable wages, supporting the vibrant cultural landscape of California.

KCUR: Kansas City Arts Groups Left Reeling After Missouri Governor Slashes Millions From Budget

Arts organizations in Kansas City are experiencing significant repercussions after the Missouri governor slashed millions from the state's budget, as detailed by KCUR. These substantial cuts directly impact funding for numerous arts groups, leaving many to grapple with unexpected financial shortfalls. The article conveys the widespread dismay among cultural institutions, who fear the cuts will jeopardize programs, operations, and community engagement. This abrupt reduction in state support presents considerable challenges for the Kansas City arts scene.

Florida Arts Organizations Grapple With Budget Cuts After State Denies $1.5 Million in Funding

Florida arts organizations are facing severe challenges following the state's decision to deny $1.5 million in requested funding, according to BroadwayWorld Miami. This substantial cut impacts numerous cultural institutions across the state, leaving many to grapple with significant budget shortfalls. The denied funding will necessitate operational adjustments and could lead to reduced programming or services. This financial blow is causing considerable concern within Florida's vibrant arts community.

International

Shakespeare Festival in Ukraine Goes On Despite War

The Shakespeare Festival in Ukraine is remarkably continuing its schedule despite the ongoing conflict, as reported by BroadwayWorld. This annual event is proceeding with performances and related activities, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian arts community. The festival serves as a powerful symbol of cultural endurance, providing a sense of normalcy and artistic expression amidst challenging circumstances. Its continuation highlights the unifying power of theater even in times of war.

Missed our last few newsletters?

July 7, 2025 - Women in Theater, Engaging Gen Z, & Broadway's Big Wins!

A major thread woven throughout this week's stories is the crucial need for greater inclusivity and accessibility. We'll explore the troubling underrepresentation of women in upcoming regional theater seasons and efforts to address it, alongside insights into engaging younger demographics in cultural organizations. You'll also read about a new, tuition-free mentorship program for high school students from underrepresented communities, and a significant grant for theater renovations aimed at improving accessibility for all. Simultaneously, we examine the powerful impact of financial realities, from how rising costs are prompting local theaters to "play it safe" with programming, to the impressive box office recoupment of a Broadway hit.

June 30, 2025 - New Leadership Across Institutions, SDC/Off-Broadway Announce a New Contract

The vibrant and contentious spirit of the arts industry was on display this week. Broadway artists protested against a proposed Times Square Casino, while other groups rallied in support. Democratic senators staged a Pride event at the Kennedy Center amidst the Trump Administrations takeover of the facility.  Amidst these battles, there's also significant movement within the organizations themselves, with a wave of new leadership stepping into prominent roles across New York and regional theaters, signalling change as the only constant in the industry.

June 23, 2025 - New Leadership at the Off-Broadway League, and an Inside Look at Rachel Zegler in Evita in London

As summer officially arrives, we bring you the latest happenings from the world of theater, highlighting both new beginnings and ongoing developments. This edition covers exciting new leadership appointments Off-Broadway and in regional companies, a look at an ongoing legal battle in the New York theater scene, and a viral international performance. Plus, we've curated the perfect summer reading list and a sun-soaked playlist to get you in the seasonal spirit. Dive in for all the details!

BroadwayWorld Resources

BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program

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Add Your Show to our Regional Events Calendar

As audiences get set to return to in-person performances, and as your company works to market your own return to the stage, make sure you've got your upcoming shows in our regional events calendars. Listings are free of charge, with boosting options available. Get your show listed now

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