5 Ways to Help Theatres and Artists During the COVID-19 Crisis
1. Have tickets to a canceled performance? Convert that fee into a donation. While many ticket sellers, including TDF, issue automatic refunds for canceled performances, consider donating those funds to the theatre if it’s a nonprofit. Insurance will not come to the rescue of not-for-profit companies, and many will inevitably struggle to pay their bills, so monetary gifts are desperately needed.
2. Donate to independent theatre artists directly or through a fund. Have a favorite independent artist you’d like to support? Many creators have Patreon accounts where fans can pay a membership fee to see their work. Other out-of-work artists and theatre staffers are asking for donations to their Venmo accounts via Twitter, and have attracted some big-name patrons, including The Cher Show Tony winner Stephanie J. Block. Alternatively, you can donate to a general fundraiser for freelance artists. The Indie Theater Fund is awarding rapid relief grants of up to $500 to small NYC companies, venues and artists; while Artist Relief Tree (ART) is doling out $250 grants. The organization creative-capital.org has a list of other worthy funds that are helping artists during this crisis.
3. Watch live-streamed performances in exchange for donations. Many artists and nonprofit organizations are sharing their creations and talents online via live video platforms. You can usually watch for free, but contributions are encouraged. If you enjoy a virtual performance, show your appreciation by sending some bucks.
4. Buy a ticket for a future performance. Although it’s uncertain when theatres will reopen (we’re hoping the mid-April target date won’t need to be pushed), some productions are selling tickets for future performances. Spending your money now for something you can look forward to will help get shows through. That said, most nonprofits have ceased selling tickets. In those cases, consider a tax-deductible donation.
5. Know any theatre artists? Ask if they’re conducting online workshops. Over the past few insane days, I’ve seen many artists offering a wide variety of virtual instruction, including acting coaching, press release writing, singing lessons, etc. Everyone wants to find a way to continue to work while maintaining social distance. So get on social media and find out who’s offering creative classes online. Art is going to help us get through this.
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RAVEN SNOOK