For what it's worth

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had great economic impact on and yielded much information about the value of the performing arts. Most performing arts enterprises are not-for-profit, highly geared in the market, and require upfront investment ahead of uncertain returns. COVID-19 borders created special challenges for interstate and international co-productions and elite performers. Performing artists were hit especially hard during the pandemic necessitating rapid shifts in operational and funding strategies. A deep sense of isolation and loss of arts events drove a highly engaged uptake by audiences of digital performances, livestreamed and recorded, and public recognition of the central place that culture and creativity play in the daily lives of most Australians. The pandemic has driven adaptation and innovation in arts digital production and engagement with the expectation that this platform will persist post-COVID, potentially deepening and expanding access. Collectively strategis-ing to strengthen the interconnections between arts and industries such as tourism and hospitality and retail, health, education and general wellbeing and cohesiveness of our community may well uncover opportunities for us to build back better.