Changing the State’s Discourse about Public Theatre Institutions by Redefining the Language of Law

Abstract

"In this study we take a closer look at how the state refers to performing arts venues and their roles and attributions in Romanian society, through its official channel of expression – the law. The two chosen laws, OG 21/2007 and OUG 189/2008, define the purpose, structure and organisation of public performing arts institutions, the criteria for becoming their manager and the duties that must be performed in this position. Our research first reflects on the terminology of these laws, comparing it with the general vocabulary of the texts. Then, for each of the two sets of regulations, we illustrate their shortcomings from the point of view of theatre management, grouping them in six and four topics. We believe that it is necessary to sensitise the professional and civil community to what the word of law actually means, since we consider it important to take back our public spaces through language as well and start democratising public institutions also through discourse. Keywords: public sphere, legislation, performing arts, management, post-communist institutions, state funding. "