An equal stage - Political strategies and activism in performing arts for young audiences

Essay on ”Equal access to performing arts in schools”

By: Niclas Malmcrona, 2025

In a time when cultural policy is challenged by budget cuts, decentralisation, and unclear lines of responsibility, the question arises: how can performing arts for young audiences become a driving force for equality and democratic participation?In his thought-provoking essay An Equal Stage, Niclas Malmcrona explores the intersections between political strategy, cultural policy, and artistic activism within our field.

Originally written as part of the course Political Strategies in Contemporary Performance at Stockholm University of the Arts (Uniarts.se), the essay examines how artists and organisations can—and must—engage in active advocacy to ensure equal access to the arts for all children and young people.