A Research on Management and Development of the Small-scale Modern Dance Companies in Taiwan

• Main Authors: P-Jung Wu, 吳碧容
• Other Authors: 夏學理
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2008
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/jv8a3t

碩士 === 國立臺北藝術大學 === 藝術行政與管理研究所 === 96 === In any given field, “adding fuel to the fire" is necessary for continual development. However, according to the findings of a study done in 2002 by the China Times Job website, employment in the artistic and creative industries is proportionally lower, specifically, less than 30% of dance graduates enter into the performance industry. Other than demonstrating that dance as a discipline is not being learned and applied, this shows more that in the last ten years in Taiwan, dance company management has had to face a lack of stability and a lack of stamina, issues which grow steadily worse. In the past ten years, most of Taiwan’s modern dance and theatre companies have started on a small scale and developed from there. There are two reasons for this: First, since 1980, there has been a boom in small theatre venues in Taiwan, allowing many artistic directors to present works on a small scale. Second, after the National Culture and Arts Foundation was established in Taiwan, qualification restrictions put on subsidy applications has indirectly facilitated the establishment of many small modern dance and theatre companies. Yet, according to records of the past seven years of assistance provided by Taiwan’s Council for Cultural Affairs in as well as awards given in the category of dance by the National Culture and Arts Foundation, the total amount of subsidies usually awarded fall into four categories (including dance, modern theatre, traditional drama and music, etc.) with dance at the top. The number of modern dance companies in the category of subsidized dance companies makes up more than half overall. Moreover, within these modern dance companies, three out of five are small companies. All of the above factors show that small modern dance companies play a significant role in the development of dance in Taiwan. Marketing management expert Kotler points out, “In the initial stages of establishment, small performance groups do not need complex management or strategies because the whole company can be run by the business founder. However, maintaining stability and sustainability has its difficulties. Especially after being established for a number of years, small performance groups have to face the problem of survival.” The author of this thesis has been involved in dance related work for nearly twenty years. Based on her experience in choreography and dance company management, the researcher understands that finding a stable way to run and manage a company could solve the issue of self-preservation and also address the question of whether or not the field of dance can continue to develop in the long run. This research consists of six chapters. The introduction, the literature discussion, and research method serve as a foundation. Through questionnaires and in depth interviews, five different cases of dance companies in terms of their current management situations are presented. Companies include Sun-Shier Dance Theatre, The Century Contemporary Dance Company, Water Reflection Dance Ensemble, Acme Physical Dance Theatre, and Scarecrow Contemporary Dance Company. An analysis of their models of operation, organization of personnel, finance management, public relations and marketing, and choreography process is given, showing the influences and helpful factors in the development of small dance companies. This information can be used as reference for “growth assessment” and “management suggestions” for current small dance companies and company management.