New 42 Strategic Plan
FY2026 – 2030
Through the New 42® Strategic Plan, we will expand our reach and deepen our impact on the kids and families of New York City by delivering extraordinary theatrical experiences that every child can access, both at the New Victory Theater and in their neighborhoods. We will empower artists to create new works that inspire, engage and connect us all. And we will continue to champion our block of 42nd Street to the benefit of all New Yorkers. As a result, New 42 will be known locally, nationally and internationally as a leader in innovation, education advocacy and the future of theater.
Goal 1:
Expand our reach by serving more young people and deepening our impact on those we serve
Strategies:
Design and launch a joint performance/education program built for theatrical and non-theatrical community spaces across New York City
Expand free ticket program for New York City Housing Authority residents to reach more kids and families
Elevate New 42’s audience and user experience through exceptional, industry-leading customer service and accessibility
Increase investment in marketing and public relations to increase revenue and raise profile
Grow our online education and performance resources and expand access to them for audiences and educators
Assess and determine our capacity to add performances to planned New Victory® seasons
Goal 2:
Increase our support for artists and the creative process
Strategies:
Expand career, production and mentoring support for artists creating the next generation of theater for young audiences
Research and make recommendations for how New 42 can co-produce new works from New Victory LabWorks and Teaching Artists at a manageable scale
Upgrade and expand equipment and technical resources in the New 42 Studios
Expand professional development opportunities for New 42 artists (LabWorks, Studio users, Teaching Artists, etc.)
Goal 3:
Grow our leadership in innovation, education advocacy and the future of theater
Strategies:
Identify New 42’s next major research project, potential partners and potential funders
Host gatherings, conferences and workshops for industry peers, civic leaders and creatives in New York City and beyond
Advocate for the preservation and growth of arts education funding in the public and corporate sectors
Expand our staff’s presence and leadership at arts, education and political events and speaking opportunities nationwide, especially events where New 42 has previously been unrepresented
Goal 4:
Serve as a champion, leader and resource for our block of 42nd Street
Strategies:
Serve as the leading advocate for the beautification, safety and accessibility of the block
Host, connect and build community among Times Square stakeholders and arts partners
Goal 5:
Nurture a team culture that builds wellness, satisfaction, retention and belonging for all staff
Strategies:
Launch a comprehensive pay, skill, benefits and promotion transparency project to bring equity and clarity to career paths at New 42
Build toward a sustainable financial model for instituting a higher baseline wage for all full-time employees
Expand professional development opportunities for staff and New 42 Youth Corps
Strengthen work-life balance through consideration of additional restoration and respite opportunities
Grow New 42’s investment in its inclusive, welcoming and diverse team culture, focusing on industry-leading equity practices, sustainability and accountability
Goal 6:
Strengthen our institutional health, infrastructure and sustainability
Strategies:
Improve the accessibility and amenities of our physical spaces through capital investments
Grow the endowment and focus use of its earnings on strategically-critical programs
Increase contributed revenue opportunities (including increasing multi-year grants, sponsorship opportunities, board development and individual support)
Analyze our technology systems and tools and leverage them to support all programmatic and operational strategies
