On state funding of theatrical art in Karelia: end of 1940s - first half of 1960s

The aim of the article is to identify stages and methods of theatrical art funding in Karelia by the State at the end of the 1940s through the first half of the1960s. The purpose of the research is to determine the effect generated by the state grant volume on the working conditions of the Music and Drama Theatre (Theatre of Russian Drama), Finnish Drama Theatre, and Petrozavodsk Puppet Theatre. Characteristic features of the life of Karelian theatrical intelligentsia, working in conditions of planned economy, are revealed. Conclusion were made based on the research of expenses directed to support new productions, buildings’ maintenance, actors’ salaries, and road tours. It was found out that decoration of performances, especially the ones dealing with historical problems, required considerable investments. Besides that, huge financial resources were spent on the theatres’ creative staff and on buildings’ maintenance. In conditions of planned economy, Karelian theatres could not cover all necessary expenses by themselves. Low profitability of theatrical ensembles in Karelia was caused by high plan indices reflecting the number of served spectators and given performances. As a result, theatrical life in KFSSR and later in KASSR could no longer survive without financial support from the State. Significant reduction of the state financial support at the end of the 1940s resulted in stagnation and deterioration of the theatres’ performance. Subsequent renewal of the state financial support in 1950s lead to sturdy revival of the studied industry. However, at the beginning of 1960s the state financial aid was reduced again and Karelian theatres had to earn money by themselves. Some increase in the income of the theatres was achieved by planning “light repertoire” with cheap costumes and inexpensive decorations.