Crisis Slams Arts Groups, but New Institutions Defy Downturn

The worst effects of the economic crisis that has sparked cutbacks and closures among museums, theaters, symphonies, and opera and ballet companies might still be to come, USA Today reports.

In an article detailing the woes arts groups nationwide are already facing, Jesse Rosen of the League of American Orchestras says the full impact has been masked because many groups sell performance subscriptions up to a year in advance. “It’s the second year when it catches up,” Mr. Rosen says.

The New York Times reports that the Metropolitan Opera, which has already cut salaries and scaled back its next season, will put up its celebrated Marc Chagall murals as loan collateral. General Manager Peter Gelb downplayed the step, saying the Met has “no intention of giving up” the paintings.

The downturn is not deterring all artistic enterprises. The Times reports on the start of the Opera Manhattan Repertory Company, which will showcase emerging talents. And the D.C. Philharmonic opens next month with hopes of attracting the region’s affluent African-American residents, according to The Washington Post.

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