Jesse Lilis discusses the journey of Starling Shakespeare, a nonprofit theater company, and its vision for the future. The conversation delves into the challenges of operating as a nonprofit, the company's revenue model, and the potential for digital content creation in the performing arts industry. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of digital content creation for theaters, emphasizing the need to experiment, learn, and engage with audiences in new ways. It also highlights the importance of providing valuable and entertaining content while navigating the transition to a digital platform.
Takeaways
- Nonprofit theater companies rely on a combination of performance fees, donations, grants, and sponsorships to sustain their operations.
- The creation of digital content in the performing arts industry presents opportunities for engaging audiences and expanding reach, but it requires careful consideration and experimentation.
- The mission of Starling Shakespeare is to provide professional theater for free, making it accessible to communities that may not have access to high-quality art. Digital content creation for theaters requires experimentation and learning
- Engaging with audiences in new ways is essential for the transition to a digital platform
Chapters
- 00:00 Introduction to Starling Shakespeare
- 05:49 Founding of Starling Shakespeare
- 14:02 Challenges of Operating as a Nonprofit
- 20:03 Adapting to the Digital Landscape
- 28:23 Exploring Digital Content Creation
- 33:37 Planning for 2026
- 39:04 Adapting to a New Container
- 44:14 Purpose of Social Media for Theaters
- 51:19 Engaging with New Audiences
