Ever since the 2008 recession, arts funding has been on the decline. Coupled with the rise in digital entertainment options, cultural organizations have been trying to figure out how to attract and retain audiences.

To address the problem, Seattle’s Intiman Theatre has come up with a novel — and perhaps radical — plan: The nonprofit organization plans to give away tickets to its next production. All of them. For free.

Intiman’s executive director, Phillip Chavira, says this isn’t as crazy as it sounds. He sees it as the best way to increase access to Intiman’s artistic output.

“Providing free tickets is one step to removing barriers to access,” says Chavira. "It’s one step, but it’s the largest we can take.”

In July, Intiman will present the two-person drama “Events,” inspired by the 2011 mass shooting in Norway. Intiman artistic director Jennifer Zeyl says that even though the tickets will be free, Intiman will honor its existing union contracts with actors and backstage artists.

If the theater company succeeds in its mission to attract new audiences and stay on an even financial keel, Intiman says it could extend the free tickets policy to future productions.