The Theater Operation and Management International Conference 2021 was held on July 24 by Communication University of Zhejiang in Hangzhou, bringing together different voices of experts, researchers, art agents from home and abroad to join the discussion on streamlined means of managing theaters in the contemporary context.

Will Stroet, a CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) producer shared with the audience how Canadian art performers and agents have adapted to new challenges under the Pandemic, with its government responding quickly to financially support them. As a result, these grants were repurposed in many creative ways. For instance, the platform “the concert hall.ca” was created where people could enjoy symphony orchestras from home.

The success of producing the “vocaloid” made Crypton Future Media one of the leading synth developers. Due to the pandemic, the synthesized idol Hastsune Miku was completely moved online. “In the future performances will not be confined to physical music halls.” Said Hiroyuki Itoh, the President of the company.

Currently, a hybrid model which combines live in-person and live-streamed shows is emerging the main form of performance. Many international art festivals such as Vancouver International Jazz Festival returned this year thanks to this innovative way.

“From the management perspective, it’s advisable to improve the exposure of traditional art on the new channels of presentation like Douyin and Youtube.” Said Jonathan, a professor who teaches marketing and economics in Communication University of Zhejiang.

Over the last few years, social media platforms have increased accessibility for international audience, for the elderly and even people with disabilities. It is agreed by many experts that with an outlook on the future, technology in the delivery of art will continue to benefit a bigger audience.

Both Jonathan and Dong Feng, a professor from Shanghai Theater Academy have noticed the large crossover between management and art. “Interdisciplinary talents who know how to manage arts are those we urgently need.” Said Dong.

Since 2004, Communication University of Zhejiang has taken the lead in preparing students with the skills to both create and manage arts.

“Besides all of that, audience orientation is what I believe vital to maintain long-term business.” Said He Shengmin, General Manager of Hangzhou Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Theater. The theater chooses the plays precisely that are tailored to the voice of audience and are generally quickly sold out.