Big Hug Tour airs impact of economy on the arts

LYNN-The Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) will hold a meeting in Lynn on Monday, Jan. 5 where members of the arts community can share stories and information about how the nation’s soured economy has impacted their livelihood.The meeting is one in a series of informal gatherings that together have been dubbed the Big Hug Tour during the week of Jan. 5-9.”Come prepared to share stories and data on how the weakened economy has affected your business, and how you’re responding,” said Susan Halter, executive director of LynnArts at 25 Exchange St. in Central Square, where the meeting will be held at 10 a.m.”Help us brainstorm how we can work together to promote continued private and public investment in arts and culture in Massachusetts, even as resources are increasingly strained.”Among the changes that will be discussed are ticket sales and attendance at arts events, earned revenue, endowment value, corporate sponsorship and individual givingInformation will not be used for grant review purposes or shared with the public, Halter said. Eleven meetings will be held statewide, facilitated by MCC staff members. To reserve a seat, call Neluka Levy at 617-727-3668, ext. 321, or email [email protected]. Lynn is the first stop on the tour. The other meetings will be held in New Bedford, Boston, Centerville, Concord, Springfield, Pittsfield, Worcester, Deerfield, Brockton and Lawrence.