Hello everyone!
We recently opened a new performing arts center and grew by three venues (recent-ish. 2019). The shops also became stewards of all of the department productions in the School of the Arts instead of just one department. We have seen a significant increase in the amount we support. The shops were displaced to temporary locations and still reside in those temporary locations. We are facing the challenge of communicating the needs for an expanded scene (and costume) shop. This is in terms of both square footage and equipment. We made an official request for new spaces providing a document outlining the justifications for the ask. This is all within a University and dealing with all those machinations. I share all this by way of providing background. It's been really difficult to get any traction.
Anyone else experienced a similar situation? What I am wondering is what others may have done to bolster their asks.
I also realize this is a big topic. I appreciate any insights. Thanks in advance for anyone that takes the time to offer thoughts.
We recently opened a new performing arts center and grew by three venues (recent-ish. 2019). The shops also became stewards of all of the department productions in the School of the Arts instead of just one department. We have seen a significant increase in the amount we support. The shops were displaced to temporary locations and still reside in those temporary locations. We are facing the challenge of communicating the needs for an expanded scene (and costume) shop. This is in terms of both square footage and equipment. We made an official request for new spaces providing a document outlining the justifications for the ask. This is all within a University and dealing with all those machinations. I share all this by way of providing background. It's been really difficult to get any traction.
Anyone else experienced a similar situation? What I am wondering is what others may have done to bolster their asks.
- How did you clearly tie the shops to academics?
- Any calculations connecting budget for designs to square footage?
- What worked for justifying a ROI (Return of Investment) for the expanded shop spaces?
- What was the tipping point for you that finally got traction?
I also realize this is a big topic. I appreciate any insights. Thanks in advance for anyone that takes the time to offer thoughts.