ACC in Community

The ACC believes strongly in the power of a critical mass of arts to be an engine for the economic and cultural development of a community.  Many geographic areas have modeled the successful use of the arts as a tool for revitalization.  As we continue to formalize the operations of the ACC, we are in the process of producing our own informal baseline study on the economic impact of the cultural offerings in our region.

•  It documented 140 arts organizations and groups in the 20 towns Waterbury Region.  Some of these groups are well known statewide and some tour the world.
• These 140 range from major institutions such as the Palace, the Mattatuck Museum and National Dance Companies such as Pilobolous and Momix to community theater, dance and art schools, municipal arts commissions and artist's leagues.
• The Region boasts 11 Museums, 14 Dance organizations, 15 Theatrical groups and venues, 24 orchestras and musical ensembles, and 38 galleries and exhibition spaces.
• There are 34 commercial restaurants and clubs providing regular venues for the region's performers and musicians. 14 of these are in the City of Waterbury.  

All of this artistic activity contributes to the region's economic and cultural impact of the arts statewide.

• There are 27,000 arts jobs in Connecticut.
• The Arts Industry produces 2.8 billion in gross state product annually
• The Palace alone has had a significant economic impact not only on the City of Waterbury but also on the whole region in its support and encouragement of all the Arts.
• The Palace alone has had a significant economic impact not only on the City of Waterbury but also on the whole region in its support and encouragement of all the Arts.
• The Waterbury Regional Chamber recognizes the important contribution the arts can make to economic development. The Chamber has been a major supporter of the Arts & Culture Collaborative since its beginning providing office space and staff assistance to its initial organizing activities.  

For studies on the impact of arts education on its participants, consider reading the research of professor and linguistic anthropologist Shirley Brice Heath.  For an eye-opening accounting of the impact of arts and culture on Connecticut's economy, consult the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism.  For a national perspective on the picture, try Americans for the Arts.

For a first hand experience on making a difference through the arts, contact us to see how you can get involved with your membership to the ACC, Waterbury Region.