Katie Stricker, right, has spent almost two decades in various roles at Tacoma Arts Live. | Photo courtesy of Tacoma Arts Live
What you probably already know: Arts organizations across the United States have struggled for years, particularly during and after the pandemic. A new study from SMU DataArts analyzed 10 U.S. cities and found that in seven of them, including Seattle, arts groups have experienced notable drops in revenue, with almost half reporting attendance at or below pre-pandemic levels. That presents both challenges and opportunities for Katie Stricker, the new CEO of Tacoma Arts Live, a 47-year-old nonprofit that entered a court-ordered receivership earlier this year to help it pare down a $3 million budget deficit. Stricker, who began with TAL 19 years ago as its first summer camp musical choreographer, is moving swiftly to chart a new direction for the organization, whose programs serve approximately 30,000 students annually.
Why it matters: “We are focusing on the things that are both the most structurally sustainable from a financial standpoint and that are delivering the highest impact in our community,” Stricker says. That includes growing its popular Civil Rights Legacy Tour, which already serves approximately 40 schools across several counties. Other key educational initiatives include artist residencies in schools, afterschool and summer programs, weekend workshops and social and emotional learning. The organization, which operates out of the historic Tacoma Armory, will continue several popular programs, including Live at the Eleanor, arts markets, community celebrations, expo fair and partnerships with Tomorrowland Jr. Roller Derby and Dockyard Derby Dames.
What it means: As recently as six months ago, Tacoma Arts Live was preparing to close its doors, with the board writing in a letter to supporters that the organization would shut down June 30. It has disbanded its board, discontinued two programs and was forced to lay off seven staffers. About half-a-dozen remain. Since then, however, court-appointed receiver Shelly Crocker has worked to reduce TAL’s budget deficit while Stricker — who was officially named CEO late last month — refocused the organization’s mission and core programs (think financial restructuring, building trust with key supporters and visible community engagement.)
What happens next: The receivership is expected to last 16 months. For Stricker, Tacoma Arts Live and the work itself are deeply personal. “Through the arts, I found a sense of belonging and a place where I could really be myself,” she says. “My vision centers on making this a space where the community feels seen, heard and valued.” She notes that the arts have the power to educate, inspire and bring communities together. “We are still here,” Stricker says. “Not only are we not closing, but we have continued to deliver our public programs and education activities throughout all of this.”
