Australian Arts Engagement Hits Record High While Orchestras Struggle

A recent report indicates that almost every Australian participated in arts and culture activities last year, achieving an unprecedented level of live attendance, as noted by ArtsHub. This finding contrasts with an article from the Philadelphia Inquirer, which argues that artistic excellence does not guarantee financial success for orchestras. In a related move, travel writer Rick Steves purchased a movie theater in Edmonds, Washington, for community purposes, according to KING 5. Meanwhile, Berlin's Volksbühne theatre has stirred controversy by adding a public swimming pool, as reported by The New York Times. The art community is in mourning for Yayoi Kusama, who passed away at the age of 97, as highlighted by the Washington Post. Additionally, Tedium discusses the evolution of the subscription model through a retrospective on Columbia House.