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Advocating for the Arts

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Arts and creativity are vital to the economy, our communities and neighborhoods, and our schools. That's why AACT is actively involved in advocating for the arts in general, and community theatre in particular.

Anyone can advocate for the arts and make an impact, and there is a lot of helpful information to be found online, including tools, research, and training. The list below provides some of the most useful explanations of the advocate's role, how to advocate effectively (and legally), and presenting a clear and effective message.

Explore the resources below to learn how you can advocate for community theatre, the arts, and  a more creative America.


  • AACT's Impact of Community Theatre page.
  • "Make Your Case: Former Lawmakers on Effective Advocacy" (sample article from our member Resource Library.
  • "Advocacy Matters" - a regular feature in our Spotlight magazine.
  • Americans for the Arts advances and leads the network of organizations and individuals who cultivate, promote, sustain, and support the arts in America. AACT is a member and a working partner.
  • Theatre Communications Group is a major advocate for the not-for-profit professional theatre in the United States. TCG represents the theatre field both in Washington, DC, and nationally, to provide timely information for theatres and theatre artists on federal legislation, regulations and other significant government opportunities and issues.
  • The National Assembly of State Arts Agencies links & supports state arts agencies that serve to increase public access to the arts and work to ensure that every community in America enjoys the cultural, civic, economic and educational benefits of a thriving arts sector.
  • Arts Advocacy Basics for Performing Arts Organizations provided by the Performing Arts Alliance.
  • World Theatre Day was created in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI). An international non-governmental organization, ITI was founded in 1948 by UNESCO and the international theatre community. World Theatre Day is celebrated annually on the 27th of March. Various national and international theatre events are organized to mark the occasion, but many events are local with the purpose of drawing attention to theatre and international harmony.