Sneak Preview: The MACA 2014-2015
One significant challenge in presenting a performance series is the cost. MACA’s performance budget generally ranges between $55,000 to $60,000 a year. In addition to artist fees, there are costs for sound and light tech support, hospitality, promotion, equipment rental, and hotel rooms. Industry-wide, ticket sales account for 40 to 60 percent of the cost of a performance. For this reason, additional funding is necessary through sponsorship. Some presenters are fortunate to have series which are funded by endowments while others, such as MACA, must develop partnerships with the corporate or business community. Because it is necessary to widely promote a show through press releases, brochures,
email marketing, and paid advertising, many local businesses have recognized the benefit of becoming a MACA performance sponsor while also acknowledging the importance of the arts to the quality of community life. The process of booking a performance series begins at least a year in advance. MACA works with other presenters through the Tennessee Presenters Corporation and North Carolina Presenters Consortium to try to put together tours which can result in lower artist fees. By May of each year, it is time to start working on the brochure and promotion for the upcoming series while also looking ahead to the next year. In October, MACA attends the
South Arts Performing Arts Exchange to view artist showcases and network with management companies and other presenters. The results of this year-long effort for the 2014-2015 Performing Arts Series at HiwasseeCollege are almost finalized and tickets will be available in July. Purchasing a season ticket is the best value. Box office tickets are also available with the price generally being $20 with an advance purchase price of $18. MACA performance season ticket buyers can also add on the Athens Area Council for the Arts season ticket at a discount at the time of purchase. www.monroearts.com 423-442-3210.
Season ticket subscribers will also have the chance to purchase a discounted box office ticket for the rescheduled performance by Dan Hicks & the Hot Licks Thursday, Oct. 9, 2014. Sponsors include Citizens National Bank, Century 21 Hendershot Realty, HopeIndustries, Hiwassee College Peoples Bank of East Tennessee, United Community Bank,Volunteer Federal Savings & Loan, Tennessee Arts Commission.
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MONROE LIFE SUMMER 2014