Abstract

                   This case study of performing arts attendance in the Twin Cities (United States) in the early 2000s explores individual characteristics associated with the willingness to cross from city to suburb or from suburb to city for cultural offerings. It draws on data collected from telephone surveys with residents regarding their attendance behaviors and attitudes toward the performing arts. We learn that most boundary crossing occurs in the direction from suburb to city, likely due to the fact that most flagship cultural offerings are located in the central cities. Suburban residents who travel to the central city tend to have higher household incomes, but are not otherwise distinguishable by age or level of education. These boundary crosses seek a broad range of performance offerings, including dance, theatre, and live classical music. Suburbanites are not deterred by concerns about safety, even as city dwellers attend performing arts in the suburbs due to safety concerns. The cost effectiveness of urban offerings may be a draw for suburban audiences, as these suburban boundary crossers voice concerns about the price of attendance.

Keywords: performing arts, attendance, urban, suburban, mobility