A new survey indicates Massachusetts cultural businesses have lost more than $250,000,000 in revenue since mid-March.
Seven hundred organizations replied to the Mass Cultural Council poll — the second it has conducted since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the region.
More than half of the businesses reported layoffs and pay cuts affecting at least 15,000 jobs.
Fifty-one cultural organizations don't pay into unemployment, according to the poll, and 25 affirmed they had a financial liability for their employees to receive unemployment assistance.
Steven Goldsher, who owns Hawks and Reed Performing Arts Center in Greenfield, estimates the business lost $100,000 in the past month, with no ticket or beverage sales.
“It’s lost revenue coming in the door, as well as we do a fair amount of private events,” he said.
Space has already been reserved for birthday parties, a memorial event and a prom, Goldsher said, then canceled because of the coronavirus.
Also lost for now: deposits made on several bands, booked to play at Hawks and Reed this spring.
Hawks and Reed employed seven people.
Goldsher, like many others, is applying for a federal business loan so he can get staff back on payroll, he said, and cover the utilities.
