Successful Relationship Development: Building a Positive Relationship between a Performing Arts Center and Its Internal and External Communities

Abstract

Over the past few years, performing arts centers have come to be regarded as having an important role in improving a community. But how can a performing arts center operate effectively and efficiently, playing this expected role? In this research project, I explore the relationship development processes of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts with its resident companies and the general public community. In addition, I locate literature related to the key themes included in relationship development. Through analyzing literature from previous studies and collected information from the case study site, I present the findings to answer my sub-research questions and I summarize unexpected findings from the case study. At the end, I provide recommendations to future leaders of performing arts centers for building positive relationships with resident companies and the general public community.