The forum was moderated by the editor of The Age, Michael Gawenda. Although less incendiary than Mr Kosky, most speakers also rejected the forum's question, arguing that the arts already did reach beyond the converted.
Art is rooted in our society.
The existence of an opera company or a dance company or a gallery or an orchestra is itself a response to a very deep communal ambition, an artistic ambition. The opera is not somehow grafted on to a community. However, he added, the performing arts could be less foreboding to audiences in Victoria if the State Theatre at the Victorian Arts Centre changed its name. The Age Company Ltd 2000. Any unauthorised use, copying or mirroring is prohibited.