Relating To The Hawaii Theatre Center.
The bill's passage would amend the Hawaii Revised Statutes to formally recognize the Hawaii Theatre Center, allowing it to receive consistent funding from the state's general revenues. This change is seen as instrumental in providing the resources necessary for the Theatre Center to maintain its facilities and programs, thereby enhancing cultural offerings and preserving an important piece of Hawaii's heritage.
SB985 proposes the official designation of the Hawaii Theatre Center as the Hawaii State Theatre. This bill emphasizes the importance of the Theatre Center, which is the only remaining theatre of its type in Hawaii and recognized as a historic site on both state and national registers. The designated status aims to ensure its preservation and operational support through annual appropriations from state revenues, which would provide a stable funding source for maintenance, programming, and community outreach efforts.
Notably, while the bill aims to secure funding and support for the Hawaii Theatre Center, there may be concerns regarding the autonomy of the Center. The proposed legislation specifies that while the state will provide financial support, it does not intend to impose control over the Center's operations or artistic direction. However, the oversight by the comptroller and auditor may raise issues about accountability and the allocation of state funds, leading to discussions about the balance between state support and independence.