Notes of Concern…
…..Jackson Blair
THE FAT LADY MAY BE SINGING NOW
You have heard the old saying that “it isn’t over until the fat lady sings.” Recently, I have sensed she may have started her aria.
Over the past few weeks I have received email notices of huge reductions in tickets for concerts of The Boston Symphony Orchestra. These typically come a week or two prior to a scheduled concert.
My first reaction is always excitement at the thought of getting to attend a concert by one of the world’s leading orchestras at a good price. I also know that I will be able to obtain a much better seat because of the lowered price.
On reflection, I realize that an orchestra that typically fills Symphony Hall every, every seat, must now be facing a downturn in attendance. If the very best of the very best is facing this economic reality, what is happening to all the other fine orchestras?
Actually, many orchestras, ballet companies, and theater groups have closed their doors in the last two years. Further, many others are at the brink, looking over the precipice at the economic realities.
So our country will be facing a time when enjoying a classical concert, attending a fine play, or observing great dancers will become harder. There will be fewer offerings and ticket prices may have to rise in order to cover the growing costs of production.
All of us should be aware that this is also happening to movie theaters, county fairs, traveling Broadway shows, and other entertainment organizations. This same situation may soon be seen with reference to sport events and stage shows.
There is a quiet, building revolution in our country that is centered on whether the average American is in a position to afford tickets to these events. When families are required to cut back on expenditures, entertainment is pretty far down the list of necessities and is often the first to go.
We have become accustomed to enjoying the finest entertainment at all levels. We may soon need to train ourselves to enjoy simpler pleasures as it may well be an economic necessity.
