2011 TCG Fall Forum on Governance
2011 TCG Fall Forum on Governance: Capitalizing an Art Form
November 11–13, 2011
TCG's Fall Forum on Governance is one of our most popular programs. This annual event brings together trustees and theatre leaders from across the country to discuss topics that are critically important for theatres today. Participants love this event because it gives them the opportunity to spend time with their colleagues away from the day to day. It is also a great chance for trustees nationally to meet each other and discuss common issues in an intimate setting.
For the last few years, the TCG Fall Forum has responded to significant changes in our world — affecting us as a field, as a nation, and as part of a global community.
Today, theatres are leaner and more prepared for change, but many continue to work in survival mode. And for a number of years, we have recognized the challenges inherent in the undercapitalization of the theatre field. Even without a major economic recession, theatres often lack the financial underpinnings, including basic liquidity, to excel on multiple fronts—with respect to artistry and human resources, as well as the ability to invest in R&D that could allow the introduction of revolutionary ideas for both art and administration.
Can we make some adjustments to the way we define and think about our assets — particularly our human, financial and artistic assets?
- How do we interact with our staff, board, audience members and funders — to more appropriately prepare for the work ahead?
- How do we best leverage our financial assets given the new normal — and think differently about our resources and connections?
- How do trustees engage with the artists, their process and their work on stage in order to best communicate and advocate for the art form?
This year, we invite theatre leaders and trustees to think more broadly about their assets and the components of their capital structure overall. In addition to what appears on your balance sheet, what are the real assets are of your organization, and how can you leverage them in order to thrive, even in the midst of an uncertain and economically challenged world?
There are continual confirmations that we're not likely to see a return to "the way things were." Within the US, the economy feels uncertain once again, jobless rates are not reassuring, the political climate is very divisive, and yet, we are looking for a sense of hope and optimism.
As we continue to develop ways of working to suit this new climate, we are presented with an ideal moment not only to return to the basic fundamentals of good governance, but to go beyond those basics and evaluate how theatre boards can best support and encourage the theatres they govern.
Join us in New York this November for an intimate gathering of trustees and theatre leaders, hear from thinkers from inside the theatre field and beyond — and be a part of dynamic conversations about leading a sustainable and flourishing theatre.
For more information, contact Dafina McMillan.