Arts venues work to fill the house as patrons cut back

Arts venues work to fill the house as patrons cut back
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
BY PEGGY McGLONE
Star-Ledger Staff

Like many New Jerseyans, Gene Mulranen is worried about the economy, job security and paying for college for his three kids.

But Mulranen's concerns aren't going to force him to miss out on the sporting events he enjoys.
Advertisement

"In doom-and-gloom times, people want to get out," said Mul ranen, a resident of Glen Ridge who takes his children to Nets and Rutgers basketball and Ironmen soccer games. "I guess it's the camaraderie thing."

Feeling the pain of the economic downturn, New Jerseyans are taking a second look at their entertainment spending habits. Those facing job loss or mortgage crisis can easily eliminate such discretionary expenses. But for most, cutting back on fun is a difficult choice to make.

"This is my one luxury, my one thing," said Stephen Scebelo, a 53-year-old accountant from Raritan Township who is a Devils season ticket holder. "I don't spend a lot of money on myself."

In tough economic times, people typically cut back -- but do not eliminate -- their entertainment spending, according to Barbara O'Neill, financial management specialist with Rutgers cooperative extension. They may go out less, choose less expensive events, or both. It's called "stepping down," she says.

"The choice might not be yes or no," O'Neill said. "People might be able to do the things they love if they figure out how to do it at a lower cost point."

Tim Heine, an attorney who lives in Westfield, said the economy has made him less impulsive.

"Instead of turning off the spigot, you step back and think a little," he said. "I'll say, 'Do I really want to do that?' or I might not buy the best tickets."

Many venues are already feeling the pain. Attendance at Broadway shows dropped during the first part of the important holiday season, reports the Broadway League. About 242,000 attended shows during the first week of December, about 9 percent less than 2006. (Last year's holiday season was interrupted by a stagehands strike.)