Effective Financial Management in Malaysia’s Alternative Theatre: Challenges and Best Practices

Alternative theatres, characterized by their small-scale operations, face persistent challenges in financial sustainability due to limited resources and high operating costs. This study aims to explore the financial management challenges specific to small-scale theatre productions and develop a tailored financial planning framework to address these constraints and enhance competitiveness. The research employs a qualitative methodology, adopting a case study design focused on two prominent entities: ThreeSixty Theatre and Revolution Stage Studio. Data collection involves in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, analysis of financial records, and field observations to comprehensively understand the financial dynamics of alternative theatre productions. The findings reveal that financial management in small-scale theatre productions is significantly influenced by factors such as the availability of funding sources, the size and expertise of production teams, and the clarity of task scopes. Additionally, the effective use of celebrity actors and strategic promotional efforts were identified as critical elements for optimizing financial outcomes. This study underscores the importance of a structured financial planning framework tailored to the unique challenges of alternative theatres. By integrating factors such as resource allocation strategies, actor popularity, and promotional planning, alternative theatre productions can achieve greater financial stability and operational success. These insights provide valuable guidance for practitioners and stakeholders in the theatre industry seeking to navigate financial constraints while preserving artistic excellence.