Arts and Culture in Philadelphia: Their contributions and their challenges

Hour 2

A new study released yesterday by The Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance reports that arts and cultural organizations in the region generate nearly $170 million in state and local taxes each year and provide roughly 44,000 jobs in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties.  Interestingly, when it comes to the employment benefit of a vibrant arts community, Southeastern Pennsylvania leads the nation in creative sector jobs.  But despite its contribution to the economic health of our region, government support for arts and culture has taken a big hit.   State funding has been cut substantially and the city’s Cultural Fund has remained level.  In this hour of Radio Times we’ll look at the Philadelphia region’s vibrant arts and culture community — its economic benefits as well as its contributions to the neighborhoods and the people who live there.   We’ll also talk about the challenges facing non-profit arts organizations as they figure out how to do more in a difficult financial climate.  Joining Marty in the studio are consultant NANCY BURD, and THOMAS KAIDEN, president of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance. We’ll also hear from NICK STUCCIO, producing director of the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival and Philadelphia Fringe.

Listen to the mp3

Listen:
[audio: 092512_110630.mp3]

Photo Credit: Matt Saunders