Prague's culture debate: do the tourists want it high, low or middle-brow?

The Guardian reports that Prague's intellectuals are hitting back at the commercialisation of the city. They are two main (but related) complaints: first, the arrival of McDonalds, Starbucks and the rest; second, cuts to funding for the arts.

Here are the two sides of the argument in quotes:

'One of Prague's few legitimate claims to world-class status is its vibrant cultural scene, which in turn attracts a steady stream of international performers,' [said Prague Post editor Frank Kuznik]. 'That city officials are so willing to gut Prague's cultural life, while encouraging mindless commercial development, suggests at the very least a warped set of priorities.'

Officials and owners of Prague's popular music hall theatres have struck back at the intellectuals. One impresario said: 'We attract the tourists, we get the biggest local crowds, why should the difficult arty stuff get all the help?'

One answer? Because without a healthy fringe, the mainstream stagnates. The arrival of McDonalds, Starbucks and stage show franchises such as Mama Mia is inevitable - all the more reason to counterbalance them by protecting what is idiosyncratic and distinct.

For good or ill, that synthesis of global and local seems to be the only option available to major cities. And I'm playing devil's advocate here, but less confident travellers may even find it rather appealing...

Nathan Midgley, web producer