The Act on Performing Arts in 2008 – prepared in close co-operation with professional organisations – was considered a major achievement in cultural policy by the previous government. It regulated the conditions of access to state subsidies. Theatres and orchestras were registered in categories, the number of performances being the main criterion. A special aspect was the guarantee of at least 10% of public grants for independent, alternative, or experimental theatre groups.
In 2011 substantial amendments were made: the theatre part was practically fully re-written. The categories were reduced to three: National, Preferential, and Other performing arts organisations. Several of the automatic decisions in the former Act were removed, thereby giving more room for quality judgements. A 24-strong National Performing Arts Council for Reconciliation of Interests was established. Upon their recommendation – with minor adjustments – the Minister appoints the National and Preferential performing arts organisations. The list is updated each year: in 2021 there were 25 National organisations (10 theatres, 4 dance groups, and 11 orchestras), as well as 58 Preferential organisations (42 theatres, 5 dance groups, and 11 orchestras).
The guaranteed share of the subsidies for the third group – the independent scene – was not kept. These organisations apply for subsidies in the frame of annual public calls, targeting the respective categories.
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