Powell leads Policy roundtable on economic impact of arts and cultural institutions
Arts help attract visitors, support jobs, support local communities
Policy Committee October 15, 2026 | 3:22 PM
PITTSBURGH, Oct. 15 – Strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy means examining the contributions of every sector, including the arts. To better understand how the arts and cultural institutions help serve as an engine for economic development, the House Majority Policy Committee convened tours of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Pittsburgh Opera before a roundtable discussion about the industry’s impact on tourism and local businesses, hosted by Rep. Lindsay Powell (D-Allegheny).
“Pennsylvania’s arts and cultural institutions are vital assets to our communities. They bring people together while generating economic activity for local businesses. From restaurants and hotels to small businesses and tourism, the impact of the arts reaches far beyond the stage,” Powell said. “Today’s tours and discussions reinforced the importance of recognizing these contributions and making sure our arts community has the support it needs to keep thriving.”
The committee visited the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT), dubbed one of the most exciting ballet companies in the country. First opened in 1969, it serves as one of the largest performing arts organizations in the region. It’s home to 31 full-time dancers who come from 12 different states and six countries to live and perform in Pittsburgh. It also serves as a school attended by approximately 400 students, offering scholarships and programs to dancers of all ages. PBT puts on more than 50 performances each year both at home and on the road, drawing vast audiences who spend their money at the theatre and surrounding businesses, helping drive economic growth in the area.
Members then took a short walk down Liberty Street to the Pittsburgh Opera headquarters, the Bitz Opera Factory. Now in its 88th season, the Pittsburgh Opera is considered one of the most vibrant opera organizations in the U.S. In addition to performances, the Pittsburgh Opera offers highly sought-after educational and artistic training programs, attracting talent from around the country. Many artists who come to both these cultural organizations end up making this region their home, helping to grow the community.
With dozens of performances each year between the PBT and Pittsburgh Opera, the economic impact of the arts reaches beyond ticket sales. Performances can generate spending at restaurants, hotels, parking garages and other businesses, while the organizations themselves support a swath of jobs, educate students and contract with local vendors.
“When we talk about strengthening Pennsylvania’s economy, we must recognize the role the arts play in that effort. Organizations like the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Pittsburgh Opera attract visitors, create jobs, and contribute to the quality of life that makes our communities attractive places to live and explore,” said House Majority Policy Committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro (D-Erie). "By continuing to support the arts, we not only help preserve culture, but we strengthen our economy and create opportunities for the future.”
Photos of the tour and roundtable discussion will be available here. Information about this and other House Democratic Policy Committee events can be found at pahouse.com/policy.