Add Connecticut Opera to recession victims
The news just gets bleaker out there. In our area, we've seen the Baltimore Opera file for Chapter 11 and the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra suspend its season. Similar situations are being faced by many arts organizations around the country. Last night, in Hartford, the board of the Connecticut Opera decided to cancel the remaining productions of the season, La boheme and Daughter of the Regiment. When two such popular works are not enough to gurantee ticket sales and patron support, you know things are terribly wrong. Here's some of the statement released by the board:
"Next month will mark the 67th Anniversary of the first performance by Connecticut Opera. Unfortunately, its passing will not be met with great celebration as we must regrettably inform you that Connecticut Opera is the latest victim of the current economic crisis facing our nation ... The decision to cancel the rest of the season is not one that was easily made.
The reality of our situation is that ticket sales for Connecticut Opera in a normal season cover less than 40 percent of the cost of producing the high-quality opera you have grown to expect from us over the past 67 years. This year, however, we are facing enormous economic challenges including a slow down in ticket sales and increased difficulty in raising charitable gifts and sponsorships. This combination has made it financially impossible for us to complete the season ..."
