Whoever coined the expression “cultural explosion” to describe America's flirtation with the arts must have taken a decibel count first. For whether we are experiencing a true artistic renaissance, or, as the recent Twentieth Century Fund study suggests, merely witnessing a modest expansion of arts activity, one thing is certain—whatever is happening is not happening quietly.
When a community, an organization, or even a small group of individuals decides to build a new theatre or arts center, the announcements stream forth, press conferences are called, and words flow endlessly from mayors, civic leaders, businessmen, and occasionally from arts professionals. On December 11, 1966, for example, three lengthy articles about arts centers appeared in the New York Times.