How to Run a Theater: A Witty, Practical and Fun Guide to Arts Management by Jim Volz

by Jim Volz

Insight and humor are captured in a practical guide to arts management, providing the reader with dozens of lists--such as 20 Distractions that Erode Productivity and 12 Ways to Endear Your Theater to Your Community--and tips on building audiences, fundraising, and financial management. Simultaneous.

Genres: Theatre

Paperback

First published July 1, 2004

Reviews

[Bethany Webb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the writing style- felt less academic

[Erinina Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

How to Run a Theater by Dr. Jim Voltz

This book was the most complete and informative book on the subject that I have read thus far. It is definitely targeted at an income range that my starting out theater has not yet reached, however, as I intend this to go big, I don’t mind that so much. I did however mind, Dr. Voltz’ condescending and manipulative descriptions of management techniques. Oddly enough, he seems to be a genuine enough guy, but a few of the practices that he suggests make him lose credibility in my mind. I’ve successfully run million dollar per month grossing for profit companies with more respect for my employees than he suggests you give some of these brilliant artists working for less than nothing in a non profit field. It’s strange. Yet, at the same time he is a huge advocate for the artist. I wish I could say it were something lost in translation.

[Amy Christine Lesher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I decided to read this book when I was starting my non-profit. I'd read many books on development and several on customer service and management. After reading this book I have several topics that I feel I need to read more of for a career in the arts. It was well written, although I did feel that the topics of self - care were repeated a couple of times. And as someone who knows this, and doesn't necessarily follow it, the self care could have been replaced by more information on marketing and accounting information (since those are areas I feel like I need to know more about). Even if you're not wanting to start a theater, but you're thinking of being in the performing arts I recommend this book.

[Jordan Alexandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely informative, though at times drier than you’d hope, and the frequent usage of bullet points can make the information feel a little disjointed. Still would heartily recommend to anyone with an interest in even tangentially related fields.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

The basics of how to run a theater with a few interesting nuances thrown in to make it interesting. this book is a must for anyone who volunteers for either professional or community theaters.

[Savanna Harvey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some practical charts and lists, but mostly common sense and vast, sweeping generalisations.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informative for my writing research, but not what I would normally pick