The BBC reports that theatre in London had its best year ever revenue-wise in 2007 despite a downturn in the number of plays. They suggest that reality shows and use of big names has drawn crowds to musicals and plays:
The Society of London Theatre’s annual report said that box office takings last year rose to almost £470m. But the number of plays opening was down by a third on the previous year.
The report said two-thirds of tickets sold were for musicals, with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and Grease doing particularly well.
The shows’ stars were controversially picked on reality TV programmes. Both attracted younger first-time audiences, although the report said it is not clear whether these new theatregoers returned to see other shows.
A big-name lead also helped the play Equus, starring Harry Potter actor Daniel Radcliffe.
The total revenue created was £469.9m - up almost £70m on the previous year
BBC NEWS | Entertainment | London theatres’ ‘best ever year’
pier i think you have an unnecessary “virtual” before the reality shows.
you can delete this comment.
July 9th, 2008 at 6:06 am