In spring 2021, Battersea Arts Centre, a venue(地点)in southwest London, introduced "pay what you can" for all its shows. The reason is simple—they believe that everyone should be able to be a part of the great work, regardless of(不管) their ability to pay. Should all shows be "paid what you can"?
Some supporters believe it's a good idea. In the 17th century when Shakespeare was writing his plays, everyone went to the theatre. The cheapest ticket in London was one penny. This is how shows should be open to everyone, no matter how much they earn. Paying what you can is in the spirit of Shakespeare's time, and it opens the arts to all. It also shows that many art venues are a type of charity(慈善机构) that provide public benefits and spread culture. That doesn't mean the show isn't good.
However, this idea makes some people worried and some opponents(反对者) are against it. Society expects art for free—free art shows, free music, free videos. ____ For some people "pay what you can" would mean "pay what you want to"—nothing. It is expensive to put on a show. If the audience want to see a good show, they should pay a part of what it costs to put on. A survey by Arts Professional magazine found that many people a-void shows not because they are too expensive but be-cause they don't think they will enjoy themselves. Art venues should focus on making the best shows they can, and price the tickets to reflect the quality(质量).