What can I do?

In a great article titled "Survival Strategies for the Arts," John Killacky offers tips on what audiences can do to help their local arts organizations survive and thrive in the tough economic climate:

P.S. Things audiences can do (and all of us are audience members). Go to Open Studios and buy art. Attend the symphony. Donate. Take salsa or tango lessons. Enjoy dance performances. Bring a friend. Donate. Sing with a chorus. Listen to live music. Donate. Write a poem, short story, or memoir. Buy a local author's book. Make art with your kids at home and at a museum's family day. Participate. Donate. Debate the merits of an independent film and then upload your own onto YouTube. Have a bake sale to support an artist residency in a nearby school. Host a season announcement, Tupperware-style, for friends. Commission an artist to commemorate a birthday or anniversary. When you love something, tell your friends. Word of mouth remains the best box office motivator.