Nothing like a good economic impact story about the Arts. This time its the Shakespeare on the Sound’s 13th year production of Julius Cesar generating the increased feet in the streets effect. Naturally, I’m a strong advocate of promoting arts activities throughout Norwalk, and hope everyone gets a chance to experience the current production. But I can’t resist pointing out the promo graf from Shakespeare On The Sound’s web site:
The politically charged study of powerful, ambitious personalities in conflict offers perfect election year summertime fare. Performances are free, with a suggested donation of $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Bring your own blanket or chair.
Political intrigue for the political junkies with an arts twist. And, economic impact too. From the Advocate:
“It has an amazing impact. Even though this is the busy season for us, we see a huge increase of people,” said Kim Beaumont, owner of Down Under Kayaking, which is offering something new for Shakespeare fans this year - earlier kayak rides along Long Island Sound.
Sunset rides are usually held only on Thursdays, but Beaumont said his business will do it any night before performances during the next few weeks. About eight people were signed up for last night’s first run.
And the Rowayton Market is ready for any last-minute picnickers.
“People will come in about 7 p.m. on their way to the park, rush through and grab what they can off the shelves, and by 7:30, when the play starts, everyone is out of here,” store owner Barbara Conroy said. “Some will come a little earlier for a nice relaxing picnic beforehand.”
Conroy said prepackaged cheese platters and boxed children’s dinners were flying off the shelves before the show. She recommended the nightly hot meal specials prepared for each night of the play.
“As a business, Shakespeare is great, because we get new customers. There is so much advertising for this that people come from places like Ridgefield and New Canaan, and they come here for the first time,” Conroy added.
Across the street at the River Cat Grill, general manager Terry McSpedon has extra help on hand for the next two weeks as he prepares for more customers.“We get a nice crowd over here, especially with our patio open. People can come and sit outside and have a nice time,” he said. “A lot of our menu is quick to cook, and we can get it out fast.”
The kitchen does not close until 10 p.m. weekdays, and 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, so McSpedon expects patrons to come in after performances for a snack or dessert.
“We’re very involved; we host cast and crew parties, and we try to get as involved as possible,” he said. “We’re lucky because of our location.”
Besides the economic benefits, store owners are fired up for the level of activity and pride it brings to their section of the city.
source: The Advocate, Et tu, Brute? Play’s the thing to boost Rowayton business, By Patrick McNamee, 06/13/ 2008
