The Act on Performing Arts in 2008 – prepared in close co-operation with professional organisations – was considered a major achievement in cultural policy of 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 art organisations. Several of the automatic decisions in the former Act were removed, giving thereby more room for quality judgement. 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 28 National organisations (10 theatres, 7 dance groups, and 11 orchestras), as well as 60 Preferential organisations (42 theatres, 6 dance groups, and 12 orchestras).
The third group – the independent scene –apply for subsidies in the frame of annual public calls, the total amount of which has decreased in absolute terms in the past few years.
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