At the beginning of the twenty-first century, cultural organizations are faced with a daunting set of challenges:

• How, in an era when popular culture is dominated by television and the Internet, can arts and cultural institutions reach out to new audiences, especially the younger generation?

• In a world increasingly influenced by global culture and markets, how do arts and cultural organizations connect with audiences outside of their locale?

• What changes need to be made in the day-to-day business of the performing arts to increase efficiency and utilize the latest technology?

Though far from a panacea, Internet broadcasting addresses many of these issues.

• Internet-based media are viable alternatives to television-based entertainment. The Internet commands a relatively distinct audience, one that is notably young, literate, and curious.

• Internet use is a decidedly global phenomenon. Arts content developed for one audience broadcast over the Internet becomes immediately and effortlessly available anywhere on the earth where one can connect to the Internet.

• By providing universal instant access to media clips, streaming media provides an efficient alternative to shipping demo and promotional reels between performers, agents, and presenters.