KEENE, N.H., 4/13/10 - Arts presenters from around New England gathered March 31 at the Redfern Arts Center to discuss strategies for attracting diverse audiences to their theatres. Changing demographics in the 21st century demand that arts presenters adapt the way they do business to engage audiences from new immigrant groups to the gay and lesbian community and Generations X and Y among others, explained guest speaker Donna Walker-Kuhn, author of the book Invitation to the Party: Building Bridges to the Arts, Culture and Community.

"I firmly believe that the arts is the only pure vehicle we have in today's society that crosses cultural and ethnic barriers and allows people to transcend their differences," said Walker-Kuhn, who has worked in community affairs and audience development in some of the country's most prestigious art organizations, including the Public Theatre, Dance Theatre of Harlem, the Apollo Theater, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre.

More than 40 people attended the joint annual meeting of New England Presenters and Arts Presenters of Northern New England. This is the second year the two groups have met at the Redfern Arts Center.

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