The Arts Build Communities

The American Shakespeare Center is proud to advocate for the arts and culture in our community, around the country, and across the globe.

The arts entertain, astonish, and educate us. At the same time, the arts and culture help build communities by creating jobs, supporting businesses like restaurants and hotels, and generating tax revenue for government at all levels.

The arts mean business in so many ways. And in today's economy, investing in job-creation by supporting cultural initiatives is more important than ever.

Please visit Virginians for the Arts to learn more about how the arts build communities in the Commonwealth.

Business Leaders Agree

Many business leaders recognize the importance of the arts to a strong economy. David R. Goode, the retired chairman, president, and CEO of Norfolk Southern Corp., is one such visionary leader. In "Supporting the Arts is Good Business," published in the January 22, 2010 issue of Inside Business: The Hampton Roads Business Journal, Goode writes:

Arts organizations are a significant business themselves. They employ thousands, generate hundreds of millions in economic activity and attract tourists. Arts organizations supplement our schools and educate citizens of all ages. Most important, the arts lift our spirits and help build our communities. My predecessors at Norfolk Southern were clear that the arts were key in bringing our headquarters here. Read more»

< Back