The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) case study is an in-depth look at an organization with two competing theatrical divisions, a unique financial structure, and recent management changes after a long history of established leadership. The DCPA has three divisions: one produces theatre, another presents theatre, and the third educates through theatre. The producing division, the Denver Center Theatre Company (DCTC), is the artistic flagship, while the presenting division, Denver Center Attractions (DCA), provides financial support for the DCTC. After many years of heavy reliance on support from a dedicated foundation and from a local sales tax, with little need for the board to engage in fundraising, the DCPA recognizes the need to diversify its sources of contributed income. Within a two-year period the DCTC artistic director has stepped down after 21 years of service and the founding chairman of the DCPA has retired after 28 years, leading to significant operational and cultural changes within the DCPA.
Publication Date: 2009-05-01Suggested Citation: Aurélia K Fisher, "Denver Center for the Performing Arts (2009)," Yale Theater Management Knowledge Base Case 09-08, May 1, 2009
Keywords: Performing Arts, Facilities, Leadership Transition, Organizational Direction, Strategy, Succession, Colorado
Teaching Notes: No
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