CITIZENS VALUE PERFORMING ARTS

A recent study, conducted by the Urban Institute and published by The Pew Charitable Trusts in partnership with several arts organizations, surveyed attitudes regarding performing arts in five metropolitan areas across the country. According to the findings, attending live professional performing arts events, at least on an occasional basis, is an activity enjoyed by a significant majority of adults in the five communities. Cincinnati was one of the polling cities.

The study found that attendees place a high value on the arts in their communities. They believe strongly that the arts improve the quality of life, are a source of community pride, promote understanding of other people and different ways of life, and help preserve and share cultural heritage. Above all, they believe that the arts contribute to the education of children. Especially noteworthy is the fact that a majority of nonattenders share similar views.

Respondents also cited strong personal value in the performing arts, reflected in high levels of attendance across demographic groups, averaging more than 60 percent of the population for each region. In all five communities, more people have attended a live performing arts event at least once in the past year than have attended a professional sporting event.

Survey respondents for each site generally reflected the diverse education levels, household incomes, ages, and house-hold compositions represented in each of the five communities surveyed.


Source: The Value of the Performing Arts in Five Communities, The Pew Charitable Trusts in collaboration with the Association of Performing Arts Presenters, American Symphony Orchestra League, Dance/USA, OPERA America and Theatre Communications Group, March 2003.