Session Descriptions

Capital Campaign Success Story
Tools & Techniques: 5th Segment
Wed., July 10
9:45 am – 11:00 am

The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre began a $3.1M technical capital campaign in early 2020. This presentation shares how a small 600-seat theatre in a small mid-size city was able to fund and complete the largest single capital campaign the organization has ever conducted. The project added infrastructure, steel rigging, fixtures, new PA, sound and light boards, recording cameras, a movie screen, laser projector and culminating in the addition of a state of the art 22’ x 16’ LED video wall...completing the project six months under schedule on budget! We'll share strategies used, lessons learned and how our contingency fund saved our project budget.

Presenters:

Cheryl Fisher, Executive Director, Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre, New Braunfels, TX

Allison Humphries, Development Director, Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre, New Braunfels, TX

Enhancing Patron Engagement Through Integrated Technologies
Tools & Techniques: 3rd Segment (B)
Tue., July 9
11:15 am – 12:30 pm

This presentation delves into the evolving landscape of patron engagement within the historic theater industry, addressing the pivotal issue of how venues can more effectively connect with their audience in a digital age. The core challenge lies in integrating various technological tools—ranging from loyalty programs and membership initiatives to digital signage and data analytics—to cultivate deeper, more personalized relationships with patrons. We will explore innovative strategies and tools for enhancing patron engagement, with a focus on leveraging technology to predict and cater to patron preferences. This includes the strategic use of data analytics to understand patron behavior, the application of digital signage for effective communication, and the integration of online platforms to extend reach and personalize offers. The presentation will adopt an interactive approach, featuring real-world case studies, practical demonstrations of technology application, and hands-on workshops to ensure participants can directly apply these strategies to their venues. Through this comprehensive engagement, attendees will gain a holistic understanding of how to harness technology to enhance patron loyalty, increase conversions, and ultimately, transform the patron experience. Expected learning outcomes include a deeper understanding of current challenges in patron engagement, mastery of technological tools and strategies to address these challenges, and the ability to implement an integrated approach to patron engagement at their venues. Participants will leave with actionable insights, ready-to-implement strategies, and the confidence to apply these new skills to make a measurable difference in their patron engagement efforts.

Presenters:

Shane E. Burkett, Director, Strategic Marketing, Agile Ticketing Solutions, Nashville, TN

Miranda Duty, General Manager, Peoples Bank Theatre, Marietta, OH

Film House Group Therapy
Tools & Techniques: 4th Segment
Tue., July 9
2:00 pm – 3:15 pm

Are you thriving or just surviving in the current, complex world of film presentation? With production slowdowns, direct-to-streaming releases, hard-to-find film libraries, and the search for affordable spare parts for aging digital projectors, it's no wonder our film house members hit the bar before the conference even started. Join leaders from some of the nation's top film houses as they discuss current trends, challenges, and best practices in the industry. This is not a lecture. It's a conversation, and you need to add your voice. Arrive weary. Leave inspired... or at least with a few new friends who better understand your frame of mind.

Presenters:

John Bell, President & CEO, Tampa Theatre, Tampa FL

Jennifer L. Carlson, Executive Director, The Colonial Theatre, Phoenixville PA

Ellen Elliott, Executive Director, Friends of the Penn / General Manager, Penn Theatre, Plymouth MI

Stephanie Silverman, Executive Director, Belcourt Theatre, Nashville TN

Building Cultural Bridges in a Small Rural Community
Tools & Techniques: 2nd & 5th Segments
Monday, July 17, 2023
1:45pm - 3:00pm &
Wednesday, July 19, 2023
9:00am - 10:15am (Interactive Session)

We want to diversify our programming. We want to reach under-represented cultures. We want to change minds in our small rural communities. The challenge is figuring out how. Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater Michigan has been working to build bridges and offer programming with the unique cultures in its community for several years. Initial efforts which showcased the culture of the City's large Yemeni population where sometimes met with hostility. DEI training for some key institutions, including the theatre, led to the formation of a task force to bring the intent of the lesson to others. That effort became a community-wide, month-long celebration with numerous organizations collaborating to present more than two dozen events. The event celebrated Cultural Connections through music, dance, speakers, book reads, art, exhibits and food. The focus included many different cultures. This session will explore things that worked as well as some lessons learned. Hopefully it will inspire your own ideas and give you tools to start building your own bridges.

Wednesday's session will be an abbreviated version of Monday's session, followed by an interactive discussion of DEIB best practices and a lively idea exchange.

Presenter:

Christine Delaney - Executive Director, Tibbits Opera House, Coldwater, MI

Creating an Engaged Workforce: How an Engaged Workforce Drives a Successful Organization
Tools & Techniques: 4th Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
2:30pm - 3:45pm

In this presentation, Darrelle Johnson and Willa Burke will share how they are collaborating between their two departments of HR and Operations to drive Jujamcyn's leadership in the Broadway community in company culture and hospitality. We will describe our recruitment strategy to bring in candidates who care deeply about our core values and the mission of the company. We'll discuss how we are creating a diverse workforce and promoting a culture of inclusion and belonging. And we will expand on our tactics in managing our workforce to increase engagement and productivity. We will leave participants with key takeaways they can use to implement similar recruitment and EDIAB strategies within their own organization and ways in which they can similarly build a culture of engagement.

Presenters:

Willa Burke - Vice President, Theatre Operations, Jujamcyn Theaters, New York, NY

Darrelle Johnson, SHRM-SCP - Vice President, People & Culture, Jujamcyn Theaters, New York, NY

Elevate the Conversation - A Discussion of Elevator, Fire Protection, and Other Life Safety and Accessibility Issues
Tools & Techniques: 4th Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
2:30pm - 3:45pm

Many historic theatres find the need to add an elevator for accessibility and convenience. Installing an elevator will undoubtedly have an impact on the historic fabric of the facility. To be done right, this effort requires a multi-discipline effort - architectural, structural, (sometimes civil), mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the programmatic, code, and logistical issues associated with adding an elevator to an historic building so that theatre owners, stakeholders, and other interested parties will understand what systems and features are required, and why. The following are some of the Code requirements that will be presented in the context of elevator installations: ADA, gurney, accessibility requirements; fire alarm and sprinkler interface requirements; and elevator communications requirements for trapped passengers. We'll also discuss the pros and cons of different types of elevators - machine-room-less versus traditional machine room, traction versus hydraulic, and limited use/limited application (LU/LA) elevators.

Presenters:

Michael R. Schnoering, FAIA - Partner, Mills + Schnoering Architects, LLC, Princeton, NJ

Jeanne S. Tebera, PE, CFPS - Principal, Henry Adams, LLC, Baltimore, MD

Federal & State Historic Tax Credits & Other Potential Incentives to Help Pay for Theater Rehabilitation
Tools & Techniques: 1st Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
10:15am - 11:30am

The program will provide technical and practical information on how a theater rehabilitation could potentially benefit financially from federal and state historic tax credits, federal new markets tax credits and other available federal and local incentives, including opportunity zone financing. The presentation will discuss challenges, and ultimately the potential solutions, related to qualifying for these financial incentives, with a focus on the challenges nonprofit theater owners may face.

Presenters:

Christina Novotny - Counsel, BakerHostetler LLP, Cleveland, OH

Dee Smolik - Principal, Plymouth Soundings, LLC, Lenoir City, TN

Alexander J. Szilvas - Partner, BakerHostetler LLP, Cleveland, OH

Historic Theatre Renovation 101: A Framework for Planning Successful Projects
Early Bird Intensive Session
Sun., July 7
1:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Thinking about acquiring, restoring, and revitalizing a historic theatre? Already have one and need some help? This early-bird, in-depth session - featuring a team of leading experts in theatre planning, design, operation, and tax credit financing - presents an overview of a historic theatre renovation project. Designed for historic theatre owners, community leaders, board members, senior staff and others who are considering, beginning, or participating in the renovation of a historic theatre, this in-depth session will help you develop a clear understanding of your role in the process. Groups who want to renovate a historic theatre are encouraged to attend as a team.

Presenters:

Robert Bull, Jr. - President, The Compass Group, Baltimore, MD

Michael DiBlasi, ASTC, IALD - Partner, Schuler Shook Theatre Planners, Minneapolis, MN

Becky Hancock  - Executive Director, Tennessee Theatre, Knoxville, TN

Michael R. Schnoering, FAIA - Partner, Mills + Schnoering Architects, LLC, Princeton, NJ

How Emerging Technologies Impact Historic Theater Experience
Tools & Techniques: 4th Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
2:30pm - 3:45pm

Thanks to broadband internet, demographic paradigm shifts, the now ever-dreaded Zoom Video Conferencing, and a global pandemic, savvy historic theater operators are using advanced technologies more effectively than ever before realizing that the way to compete, stay relevant and thrive is to embrace these advances, swiftly activate them for the benefit of their venues and events. This session will explore the tech that's ready today, what tomorrow looks like and the blend that theaters are using to increase ticket sales, donor performance and ultimately their bottom line. Participants will depart the session with a firm understanding of emerging media, how to wield the power of social platforms to increase revenue and a roadmap to execute from nuts and bolts to measurable success.

Presenter:

Christin Baker - Founder & CEO, Tello Films, LLC, Nashville, TN

Shane E. Burkett - Director of Strategic Marketing, Agile Ticketing Solutions, Nashville, TN

Richard Steward - CEO, Agile Ticketing Solutions, Nashville, TN

Carol Wallace - President & CEO, San Diego Theatres, San Diego, CA

How To Manage Your Theatre's Risk
Tools & Techniques: 1st Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
10:15am - 11:30am

Insurance is a basic part of every theatre's business plan. What insurance must you have and what specific products make the most sense for your historic facility? Learn which types of insurance coverage every theatre organization needs to protect itself and its staff and board, whether it's just starting out or fully operational. Risk management tips will also be provided by presenter Kevin Sullivan, a Client Executive with the National Trust Insurance Services (NTIS) division of Baltimore-based insurance agency Maury, Donnelly & Parr (MDP). NTIS is a joint venture between MDP and the National Trust for Historic Preservation which was formed in 2003 to meet the challenging insurance issues facing historic properties across this country. MDP Programs and NTIS administer the Historic Theatre Insurance Program designed for LHAT members.

Presenter:

Kevin Sullivan - Client Executive, National Trust Insurance Services, Baltimore, MD

It's What's Inside that Counts
Tools & Techniques: 1st Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
10:15am - 11:30am

Renovating and refinishing interior theater and performing arts spaces presents numerous challenges and opportunities. Amy Mladjen, Partner and Interior Designer at Mills + Schnoering Architects, LLC and Jeff Greene, Executive Chairman and Founder of EverGreene Architectural Arts will present on how to work through the details of interior renovations and how to make the most of the space. Topics will include paint analysis and plaster investigation; typical historic paint finish and substrate challenges; the importance of mock-ups; integration of paint schemes with other finishes such as seating, carpets, and draperies; the importance of lighting; and the subtle but important difference between “color” and “value” and their impact on your paint scheme. Among other examples, Amy and Jeff's joint renovation of the Allentown Civic Theatre will be used as a case study to show how to effectively maximize and beautify a space.

Presenters:

Jeff Greene, AIC-PA - Executive Chairman and Founder, EverGreene Architectural Arts, Brooklyn, NY

Amy Mladjen, IIDA, NCIDQ - Partner, Mills + Schnoering Architects, LLC

James Earl Jones Theatre and Annex Revitalization - City Development Incentives, Theatre Rehab Bonus, Restoration, Modernization and Expansion
Tools & Techniques: 5th Segment
Wednesday, July 19, 2023
9:00am - 10:15am

City development programs can seem daunting and overwhelming to a client. Come join us as we dive into how city development programs work to facilitate new construction and finance projects by reviewing the case study of the new expansion and restoration of the landmarked Broadway Cort Theatre (renamed the James Earl Jones Theatre, September 12, 2022). Get an inside look on the rezoning process, the historic building code coordination with the expansion's modern codes and bringing a landmarked structure into the future with inclusive design elements for the theatre goer, performers, and staff. This presentation will discuss the incentive programs to facilitate historic preservation under urban redevelopment highlighting the application of New York City's theater rehabilitation bonus mechanism to the expansion of the James Earl Jones Theatre. Exploring the concepts of rezoning, floor area ratios, and the key players needed for a successful city incentive process. We will explore the role of safe areas in public assembly spaces, modifying egress routes for an expansion, and increasing travel distances to maintain code compliance in a historic building. We will dive into the requirements for a theater rehabilitation bonus from zoning to actual built elements, and time commitments. Lastly, we will be reviewing the methodologies for adapting historic motifs in a modern expansion.

Presenters:

Lena Dau-Ping Fan, RA, AIA - Associate Principal, Kostow Greenwood Architects, New York, NY

Gary A. Li, RA, AIA, LEED Green Associate - Associate, Kostow Greenwood Architects, New York, NY

Keith Marston - Vice President of Facilities, The Shubert Organization, Inc, New York NY

Keeping Up: How Historic Theaters Can Stay Relevant within Today's Consumer Behavior Trends
Tools & Techniques: 1st Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
10:15am - 11:30am

AudienceView will present the findings of our Q1 consumer behavior survey, which currently has over 2,000 respondents from our TheaterMania subscribers (the survey has not yet closed). This survey will help answer two questions: (1) What customer behavior trends are we seeing and how do they impact historic theaters? (2) What tools can historic theaters leverage to stay relevant, target new audience members, and increase donations? Some example findings we will report on include: - frequency of donations to venues - preferred context and timing for donation requests - compelling incentives for donations - how patrons discover new shows/venues - the timing of ticket sales and method of purchase In addition to findings from the survey, AudienceView will showcase a client case study as an example of successful methods to engage patrons and strategies that can be easily replicated at other venues. Attendees will take away data from the survey and ideas for tactics to employ at their venue.

Presenter:

Nick Ronan - Senior Director, Business Development, AudienceView, Seattle, WA

Paranormal Snacktivity: Or How to Optimize Your Concession Revenue
Tools & Techniques: 3rd Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
9:45am - 11:00am &
11:30am - 12:45pm

Many theaters treat concessions as a patron convenience rather than a core business strategy. But paying as much attention to concessions as you do to the show, or the film will reap huge rewards. This interactive discussion will present real-world proven strategies and industry research to help you optimize this important aspect of your theater's business model. From what to offer for sale (and how many choices) to pricing strategies, ideas to boost per capita spending and how to more efficiently lay out, staff and serve to maximize the number of sales you can fit into one 20-minute intermission, this session will pack in so many ideas that you just might not be able to implement them all at once. What type of signage boosts sales? What items will make patrons look forward to coming to your theater for the concessions as much as for the show? And what smells so good anyway? Do I really need a Point-of-Sale system? Should food and beverage be allowed in the theater (oh, the horror!!)? And could I be making money from concessions even on non-show-days?

Presenters:

Becky Hancock - Executive Director, Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation, Knoxville, TN

Randy McKay - President & CEO, Carolina Theatre of Durham, and Principal Consultant, Randy McKay Venue Consulting, Durham, NC

Renovation? But How Do We Pay for It? Multi-Faceted Approach to Fundraising Wins the Race
Tools & Techniques: 2nd Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
1:45pm - 3:00pm

Thinking about how to pay for that theater renovation can be extremely daunting. Regardless of the size of the project, successful fundraising efforts and capital campaigns can only be achieved after reflecting on and engaging in: 1. Your own organization's strengths, 2. The available and abundant (if you know where to look!) financial resources, 3. Your loyal past, present, and future patron base, and 4. Your wide-ranging network of champions. Join the entire team from the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center (New Bedford, MA) for an in-depth discussion of the creative and resourceful strategies they utilized to successfully meet their fundraising goals. From historic tax credits to grants and gifts, to at-home visits with potential donors, we will examine how their approach was executed by not focusing on one big donor to foot the bill, but on delivering tactical micro-campaigns that involved, engaged, and enticed the entire community. Our panel will include several of the “Z-Team” members who collaborated in designing these successful outreach efforts. The architect, theater consultant, fundraising expert, and executive director will be on-hand to provide “real-world strategies” as well as “lessons learned” to demonstrate how to incorporate some (or all) of these approaches into your fundraising goals!

Presenters:

Rebecca Durante, LEED AP, NCIDQ, IIDA - Lead Interior Designer and Principal, Wilson Butler Architects, Boston, MA

Rosemary Gill - President/CEO, Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, New Bedford, MA

Nicole Downing Merusi - Vice President of Strategic Advancement, Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, New Bedford, MA

Restoring A Gem: Revitalizing Milwaukee's Oriental Theatre
Tools & Techniques: 2nd Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
1:45pm - 3:00pm

In 2018, Milwaukee Film became the stewards of the Oriental Theatre, located on Milwaukee's east side. Having been built in 1927, the cinema was in substantial need of updating and renovations. To fund the renovations and build a reserve fund, we raised $10M in a capital campaign. For the renovations, we partnered with a local architecture firm (TKWA) and construction firm (Altius) and organized the renovations into four phases, which took place from 2018-2021. Phase one included the addition of a women's restroom, new projection and sound equipment, as well as updating the plaster and roof repair. Phase two included continued updating encompassing new seats, floor repair, and a concession stand. Phase three included the renovation of the main house and theater B. During Phase 3, COVID-19 impacted construction, however the actual theater closed operations. Phase four included two phases for the balcony and donor wall renovations. The presentation will include historic as well as current before/after photos. We will discuss the process, lessons learned, and discoveries made along the way. We will also touch on programming, and what we're doing now to bring new audiences to the venue.

Presenter:

Petey Balestrieri - Cinema Manager, Oriental Theatre, Milwaukee, WI

Kristen Heller - Chief Operating Officer, Milwaukee Film, Milwaukee, WI

Securing Our Future: The Folly Theater 2020 Capital & Endowment Campaign
Tools & Techniques: 3rd Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
9:45am - 11:00am

In 2017, the Folly Theater launched a $9.5 million two-phase capital and endowment campaign, “The Folly 2020 Campaign,” to reinvigorate Kansas City's only remaining 19th century theater and to secure its future as a regional arts and culture tourism destination. The lead project architect and interior designer, the general contractor, the seating vendor, and theater leadership will describe the strategic planning process, steps for implementation, and how they addressed unanticipated challenges. Particular emphasis will be placed on the design, development, and construction of the $4.3 million Phase II of the capital campaign, which was substantially completed in October 2022. The panelists will discuss the strategic development and implementation of the Campaign, including fundraising strategies, the unique challenges of renovating a 120+ year-old theater, and balancing the competing interests of maintaining the historic integrity of the theater's aesthetics while incorporating 21st century amenities and state-of-the-art technology in the built environment. Learning outcomes will include the importance of long-range advance planning and creating a vision for the future; selecting the right architect, interior designer, and general contractor, and working with this team to develop design schematics and preliminary budgets; the design and construction process; selecting appropriate vendors and subcontractors, and navigating supply chain issues; budgeting for cost overruns and time delays; and a description of issues we encountered and how we resolved them during the process.

Presenters:

Andrea Brundis - Practice Leader, PGAV Architects, Westwood, KS

Jennifer Goeke - Lead Architect/Project Manager, PGAV Architects, Westwood, KS

Kevin Schulz - Regional Sales Manager, Irwin Seating Company, Grand Rapids, MI

Rick Truman - Executive Director, Folly Theater, Kansas City, MO

Brian Williams - Development Director, Folly Theater, Kansas City, MO

The Art and Business of Film
Tools & Techniques: 4th Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
2:30pm - 3:45pm

Some of the best film houses in the country happen to be at historic venues. Whether it's first run, repertory, fulltime or part-time, giving film the respect and serious attention it deserves can prove to be an affordable and fruitful programming option for your historic theatre. We are assembling a panel of experts to discuss best practices from around the nation.

Presenters:

Jennifer L. Carlson - Executive Director, Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, PA

James DeFord - Film Program Manager, Tampa Theatre, Tampa, FL

Maica Jordan - Chief Development Officer, Austin Theatre Alliance / Paramount & Stateside Theatres, Austin, TX

The Fun Begins Here: Humanizing Social Media
Tools & Techniques: 2nd Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
1:45pm - 3:00pm

In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of any organization's marketing strategy. However, with so many brands vying for attention, it's crucial to stand out and connect with your audience on a more personal level. This workshop offers a deep dive into the exciting world of social media, providing marketing professionals at all levels with creative strategies to make their online presence an enjoyable and meaningful experience. Through a fun and interactive session, we will discuss how to showcase your organization in an authentic and impactful way, from promoting events, festivals, or artists to leveraging social media platforms to expand your reach and increase your impact. You'll learn how to humanize your brand, using a conversational tone to produce engagement, demystifying products, and effectively telling stories that resonate with your audience. The session will take you on a journey from content creation to analyzing metrics, highlighting the steps needed to make the most of your online presence. This workshop is designed to help you discover the importance of knowing your brand or organization and how to use social media to create a stronger connection with your audience. In summary, this workshop promises to be an informative and interactive experience that will equip you with the tools to humanize your organization's social media experience, helping you to stand out and connect with your audience in a more personal and impactful way.

Presenters:

Evan Goetz - Executive Director, Tybee Post Theater, Tybee Island, GA

William Hamilton - Co-Owner, Hamilton Creative

The Goldmine in the Box Office
Tools & Techniques: 1st Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
10:15am - 11:30am

During recent history the ticketing professional has become a toolkit of functions that enhance venues through web page development, social media marketing, contract negotiations, show settlements, budgeting and accounting, data collection and analysis, donor development, and customer service. Not to mention the role they play as a trusted third party for venues' major presenting and rental partnerships as they plan third party sales and budgets hand in hand with the venues' clients. This panel will discuss the many insights box office personnel can bring to the table, and a better understanding of how they can be your greatest asset in growing your business. Ticketing staff have a constant input of data, personal relationships, and first-hand experience that, mixed with the digital assets and functionality they now have at their hands, can take a venue to the next level in sales, service, and performance. Learn what resources are available through your box office, ways to break down the silo inherent in ticketing, and best practices in ticketing to increase income through communication. Join us to find the keys to the riches behind the box office door and unlock a future of success!

Presenters:

Justin Karr - Vice President of Ticketing & Technology, Jujamcyn Theaters, New York, NY

Aren Murray - US Operations Manager, Tixly, San Antonio, TX

Maureen M. Patton - Executive Director, The Grand 1894 Opera House, Galveston, TX

The Perfect Ask
Tools & Techniques: 3rd & 4th Segments
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
11:30am - 12:45pm &
2:30pm - 3:45pm

The Perfect Ask is a participatory workshop which explores tried and true strategies for soliciting face-to-face gifts. Using a linear approach to outline the process, workshop participants are provided with a practical checklist of solicitation considerations, from scheduling the meeting to closing the deal. The centerpiece of the workshop is the power of storytelling - the encouragement to tap into your narrative assets to build the most compelling case for support. Whether you are a newcomer to fundraising or a seasoned development professional, by the end of the workshop, participants not only build a comfort level for leading up to and delivering their own “Perfect Asks” but more importantly, understand why process is just as important as outcome!

Presenter:

Robert Bull, Jr. - President, The Compass Group, Baltimore, MD

The Power of the Historic Theatre
Early Bird Session
Sunday, July 16, 2023
4:00pm - 4:45pm

Come join Ken Stein for a story about the small, historic theatre that outperformed its larger, newer competitors despite its smaller stage, cramped seats, tiny lobby and… well we all know about historic theatre bathrooms. In this inspiring true story, you will learn that most shows can play almost anywhere, but they are better when they play a historic stage. Learn how to refine your marketing and fundraising skills to sell more tickets, raise more donations, and have more fun because you don't operate a theatre - you operate a historic theatre. There really is a difference and we can put a $ value on that difference. What is the value of your history? You might be pleasantly surprised! If you're a first-time attendee, after the session, follow Ken to the First Timers Welcome Lounge to enjoy a cold beverage and learn what to expect and how to make the most of your first LHAT Conference.

Presenter:

Ken Stein - President & CEO, League of Historic American Theatres, Austin, TX

Transforming Memberships & Donor Programs to Advance Equity and Social Justice
Tools & Techniques: 3rd Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
9:45am - 11:00am &
11:30am - 12:45pm

As theatres with a history of exclusion and segregation, how do we make our fundraising practices more socially, racially, and economically just and equitable? Over the past three years the Paramount & State Theatres in Austin, TX have established more inclusive connections with the Central Texas community by participating in the Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) movement. This session will explore the evolution of the fundraising model and share how our theatres have prioritized diversity and equity in our fundraising practices. The Paramount & State Theatres work to move away from the traditional donor-centric fundraising practices which historically disincentivize working in collaboration with other groups and nonprofits. Development staff will present an overview of CCF and the 10 principles that aspire to transform fundraising and philanthropy. With a special focus on individual giving, fundraising campaigns, and membership programs we will share how the principles are incorporated and applied into our work at the theatres. A Q&A discussion including prompt questions for the session participants will follow the presentation. The goal of this session is to share knowledge about the CCF movement, 10 principles, and how organizations and staffs of all sizes can incorporate these principles to help center equity and justice at the heart of fundraising. We will address questions like: How do we build space for continued learning and growth as individuals and as teams? As development professionals, how can we make decisions, represent our organizations, and use our platform to champion justice and equity?

Presenters:

Krystal Parsons - Director of Development, Paramount & Stateside Theatres, Austin, TX

Erin Waelder - Associate Director of Donor Communications, Paramount & Stateside Theatres, Austin, TX

Understanding Payment Processing & Data Security to Protect You & Your Business in 2023… Explained in Plain English!
Tools & Techniques: 2nd Segment
Monday, July 17, 2023
1:45pm - 3:00pm

We don't know what we don't know, and credit card processing in particular is confusing to almost everyone, and data security's constantly emerging threats can feel a lot like playing an unending game of whack-a-mole. This session will finally explain - in plain English - how the payments industry operates and how to control processing costs and secure your sensitive data in the midst of rampant card-testing attacks and other online threats so as to prevent costly breaches, protect your Personally Identifiable Information (PII), and prevent ransomware infections; and what you can do right now to protect your business, your customers, your family, and yourself from hackers, phishers, extortionists, and other cyber miscreants. The information presented applies to and is valuable for everyone at all levels. Even many CFOs of major corporations don't really understand how the payments industry works or the true level of risk exposure to the pervasive data security threats facing them, because no one can be an expert at everything. Managers who don't control their companies' merchant accounts will find the presentation valuable as well in how it explains how transactions flow; why not processing chip cards correctly can cost you money; and best practices you can easily employ for protecting cardholder data and preventing hacker incursions. Questions from the audience are encouraged throughout this interactive session and attendees leave with a newfound understanding of electronic payments and cybersecurity and associated best practices.

Presenter:

Wynn J. Salisch, CCM, CHS, MBKS - Principal & Founder, Casablanca Payments, New York, NY

You've Got Options: Making the Most of 'Third Spaces' in Your Theatre
Tools & Techniques: 3rd Segment
Tuesday, July 18, 2023
9:45am - 11:00am &
11:30am - 12:45pm

Theatres have been gathering spots for millennia, providing spaces for celebration, education, and entertainment. But today, theatres are being asked to play bigger roles in their communities. This session asks: How can theatres use their spaces in more creative ways? And how can new spaces provide alternate revenue streams? Many theatres are exploring new ideas with current, new, or “found” spaces, finding ways to monetize their venues with multiple uses. Hear from three theatres that, when projects are completed, will have additional sources of revenue. The 1,200-seat Grand Theater is part of the ArtsBLOCK in Wausau, WI, a district that includes galleries, The Grand, and multi-use space the Great Hall. As the city focuses on a younger, outdoor-centric demographic, the venues are creating new concepts to transform themselves while also maintaining their current patrons. The Sandusky State Theatre in Ohio has a tight combined community / multi-purpose space that has been under-utilized and restricts programming, operations, and functionality. An expansion allows for new program, including a gallery, new and enlarged 1st floor concessions, a flexible 2nd venue for pre-function, comedy, jazz, and other special events, and new “third space” covered exterior terrace, all providing a multitude of revenue-generating uses. This new space will also be available for public use and rental events. The Greer Cabaret Theatre, part of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, is reclaiming unused and inefficient back of house office space to expand what was a very small bar into a full-service bar/restaurant with room for a platform stage. The renovation creates a second venue to book smaller acts and allows for “dinner and a show” ticket sales. It will also serve as an after-show location for all the Trust's theater district patrons. The session leaders will discuss how they addressed community-driven needs, the myriad of vetted ideas, the financial considerations, the design plans, and the community responses.

Presenters:

Marta Johns - Senior Interior Designer, DLR Group, Cleveland, OH

Andy Ostrowski - Theatrical Renovation Project Manager, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, Pittsburgh, PA

Chris Parthemore - Executive Director, Sandusky State Theatre, Sandusky, OH

Sean Wright - Executive Director, Performing Arts Foundation, Wasau, WI