Practices for Planning an Anniversary Celebration
November 2023
This article is related to a recently completed custom research project ABA conducted on behalf of a performing arts member. Our research team is always delighted to speak with members about tailoring research projects to your organization. To learn more or submit a custom research request, simply contact your member advisor or email us at info@advisoryarts.com.
Anniversaries are a key opportunity for arts and cultural organizations to both celebrate their past and set the tone for the future. To learn more about the ways in which institutions have leveraged these historic moments to build momentum with audiences, donors, and communities, we interviewed four performing arts leaders about their experiences planning anniversary celebrations. We then profiled an additional five institutions with notable events around their own milestone years.
Some key findings from the report include:
A balance between community and donor-oriented events is ideal for a comprehensive anniversary. This is also a moment for the institution to make a statement from an artistic and value perspective. Let those principles guide the events.
An anniversary is, without a doubt, an excellent moment to reinvigorate donors. Use this opportunity not only to highlight and thank your current donors, but as an opportunity to reconnect with donors who were present at your founding and early years.
Set expectations and keep a transparent process from the beginning. Employees are part of the celebration — make sure they feel included.
Members can download the full report below.
