b'Y P O R H T N A L I H P Supporting the Arts: Focus on theTennessee TheatreA s a young boy, Chris Kittrell entered the beautifula level of excitement and creates memories, says Becky Tennessee Theatre with his mother to experienceHancock, executive directorhis first live performance. The moment he walkedof the Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation.into the grand theatre, he knew he was in a very special placeone with the power to transform, celebrate, educateThe arts cultivate connections, promote cultural and historical and express many different stories. The Tennessee Theatre isunderstanding, and build more welcoming communities.especially close to Chriss heart. Chriss passion has carriedThey drive economic health, community enrichment and growth. over to the firm where RK is intentional about helping clientsGrowing cities leverage their cultural offerings to attract support chosen charities as part of their financial planning. new business, global brands and more residents. While most people know that there are tax advantages to giving, many THE ECONOMICS OF ART do not consider the economic impact to the entire community. Businesses considering an expansion or relocation often weigh Although often deemed an expensive passion, the value thatthe cultural amenities of a community before making decisions arts add to the economy, the community and our culture isabout where to bring their jobs and spend their money.priceless.Even with pandemic-related closures in 2020, arts and culture generated more than $876 billion1 for the U.S.THE TENNESSEE THEATREA CULTURAL ICONeconomy, down from nearly $920 billion in 2019, making up 4.2 percent of our GDP.2 In Tennessee, during non-pandemicThe Tennessee Theatre is a local example of this cultural and years, the arts represent more than 4 percent of the economyfinancial impact. Designated the State Theatre of Tennessee, and add more than 92,000 jobs, down to 3.2 percent and morethe theatre has hosted 93 years of jazz, classical and rockthan 81,000 jobs during the pandemic.3 With the exception ofmusic, dance, comedy, Broadway performances and films,the pandemic years, that economic contribution has onlyoffering something for everyones taste. Weddings, graduations continued to growand other special occasions have made personal memories for since 1998.countless area residents.One of the big things we helpThe hope for the theatre is to create shared experiencesclients with is charitable giving,with long-time theater lovers and first-timers alike.so its very organic. People love toIntroducing someone to their first experience with the do it and want to get involved.Tennessee Theatre broadens their appreciation of the arts, while passing on a magnificent memory. Its all about sharing the theatre; that passion cannot be duplicated, Becky says.For Chris, the Tennessee Theatre is a favorite place to contribute time, energy and resources. He often bringsThe grand movie palace is a masterpiece in its own right, with friends in for private tours, to experience the magic fora Moorish revival interior embellished with floor-to-ceiling themselves and understand the importance of the venue elements from around the world: French-style chandeliers to the whole community. The arts contribute much morewith Czechoslovakian crystals, Italian terrazzo flooring in the than monetary value to our society. Having a vibrant culturalGrand Lobby, and Asian influences in the drapery andarts community makes a community healthier. It bringscarpet patterns. The Tennessee was hailed as the SouthsVolume One Summer 2022 17'