Type: Article
Language: Greek
Year of Publication: 1980
Description:
In his article published in Το Βήμα (national newspaper) on September 19, 1980, Yorgos Sicilianos addresses the recent legislative proposal concerning the permanent employment of musicians in the Athens and Thessaloniki State Orchestras. While this legislation resolves a longstanding issue dating back to the dictatorship era, Sicilianos criticizes the manner in which the bill was passed, highlighting a lack of coherent cultural policy. He focuses on an unrelated amendment attached to the bill, which introduces separate administrative and artistic directors for state theatres. This amendment, he argues, could lead to significant operational conflicts, as the artistic director’s decisions would be subject to the approval of a potentially unqualified administrative director, undermining the creative autonomy necessary for effective cultural management.
Sicilianos further contends that a balanced approach is needed where both directors hold equal status, with clear boundaries in their respective domains. He laments the lack of a longstanding cultural tradition in Greece, contrasting it with other countries where cultural planning is ingrained in the political system and public consciousness. The article emphasizes the importance of sustained cultural education to cultivate future leaders who can address the intricate challenges of cultural administration. Sicilianos criticizes the Greek state’s failure to support its artists adequately and calls for a comprehensive, practical cultural policy that reflects the needs of contemporary Greek society.