HCT's dealings are above reproach

While Hale Centre Theatre in West Valley City (HCT) has never proclaimed itself the most successful arts organization in Utah, it is proud of its success over the past 22 years. Criticism is nothing new to theater; it generally helps improve the product. However, given recent media coverage, the public deserves a more accurate and complete picture of the issues.

Although HCT has been singled out as receiving appropriations from the Legislature, other arts organizations have lobbied and received funding in years past. Further, other organizations received appropriations this session, including $1 million to American West Heritage Center, $1 million to Utah Festival Opera, $60,000 to Southwest Symphony, $50,000 to Moab Music Festival, $50,000 to Hale Center Theater Orem, and $25,000 for the Indian Summer Storytelling Festival. Contrary to published reports, HCT and Hale Center Theater Orem are not affiliated, and HCT received a $135,000 appropriation, not $185,000.

It has been reported that HCT won its appropriation through political connections. In fact, it followed appropriate and well-established procedures that will allow HCT to continue to enhance the quality of its performances.

It has been stated that community theaters subsidized by taxpayers should benefit everyone, not a select few. HCT provides more bang for the taxpayer dollar than almost any other performing arts organization in Utah. It brings 415 live productions to 220,000 patrons annually. Measured by attendance, HCT is second only to the Utah Symphony and Opera Company.

If annual state funding (Utah Arts Council and separate legislative grants) is combined with ZAP grants; HCT received only $3.93 per patron in 2006, compared to $7.65 for Repertory Dance Theatre, $8.44 for Pioneer Theatre Company, $9.98 for Utah Symphony & Opera and $12.06 for Salt Lake Acting Company. Even with the recent appropriation, HCT per-patron public funding will only increase to $4.15 for 2007. Because of public funding, HCT is able to provide quality theater at prices many taxpayers would otherwise be unable to afford.

There has been significant media attention regarding HCT executive salaries. The executive committee of HCT's board of trustees scrutinizes compensation annually and takes into account unique skills, experience and responsibilities of each individual. Salaries from performing-arts organizations around the country are considered. Additionally, that committee takes into account that HCT operates on a 12-month full production calendar. Other theaters operate on six- or nine-month calendars.