The lack of a clear vision, the outdated regulatory framework and the ineffective management of funds create uncertainty and deepen the crisis in cultural institutions. The director of the Satire Theater “Aleko Konstantinov“ Kalin Sarmenov spoke to NOVA NEWS about the real financial and administrative problems and the necessary reforms.
According to Sarmenov, the most serious problem is the long-term neglect of the needs of cultural institutions, which has led to the accumulation of systemic deficits. He emphasized that the issue is not so much the lack of funds, but their management. “There is money. The question is how this money is spent and controlled“, he said, adding that the theaters are working with a budget framework from four years ago, and in the meantime the funds have been further reduced.
The director of the Satire Theater explained that the current financing model makes it impossible for the theaters to cover their expenses and develop their activities. According to him, their own revenues are not enough for maintenance, which limits the possibility of raising salaries and leads to an outflow of personnel. At the same time, the audience has expectations for a quality environment and conditions. “This budget leads to the fact that we cannot cover our needs“, said Sarmenov and warned that in the absence of reforms “neglecting the problems will lead to an absolute shutdown of the system“.
As a solution, he called on the state to assume clear responsibility, introduce a categorization of cultural institutions and start a real dialogue with the sector. According to him, it is necessary for all parties to admit their mistakes and work together to overcome the crisis. “Someone must take responsibility… let's sit down for a serious dialogue and everyone should take responsibility“, said Sarmenov.