The Curtain Speech that Makes You an Arts Advocate!

Would you like to be in the spotlight for just 45 seconds? One easy way is to provide a curtain speech prior to the start of any arts event.  Show your support for public funding of the arts by educating audience members about the Ohio Arts Council.  Please find below a sample speech to get you started.  Make the speech your own and shine bright for the arts!

Sample Curtain Speech

As you may or may not know, [Name of organization and performance or event] is supported by your tax dollars through a grant we receive from the Ohio Arts Council, a state agency whose mission is to fund and support quality arts experiences in order to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically.  For 45 years, the Ohio Arts Council has funded artists and arts organizations – like this one – throughout Ohio.

It’s no secret that Ohio is facing tough economic times right now, and state funding for the arts could be in danger. It’s up to all of us to make sure that this funding does not disappear, so Ohio’s arts and cultural institutions can continue to be a vibrant part of our communities.

The creative sector contributes to the productivity, innovation, creativity, and quality of life in Ohio.  Our diverse array of arts and cultural offerings is one of this state’s strengths. It’s one of the reasons people and businesses look to Ohio when they’re deciding where to relocate, and one of the top reasons people give for feeling that Ohio is a great place to live, work, and visit.

 As the state legislature considers the budget for 2012 and 2013, we need to send them a clear message that the arts are a critical part of our communities.  We need to show them how the arts make a unique contribution to our lives that could not be easily replaced.

Now more than ever we need you to let your legislators know that you value this institution and the public money it receives through the Ohio Arts Council. For more information you can contact Ohio Citizens for the Arts – our statewide advocacy leader.

Thank you, enjoy the show.