The West End is attracting bigger audiences than ever, with 2006 showing the highest attendance since records began. For the third year running, more than 12 million people saw a show in one of London’s major commercial or grant-aided theatres, according to statistics published by the Society of London Theatre in its annual Box Office Data Report.
Even major events like the World Cup couldn’t keep theatregoers away. There were fuller houses across London, with the capacity sold equalling the best figure ever recorded. The arrival of eagerly anticipated blockbuster musicals such as Wicked and Monty Python’s Spamalot saw a sharp increase in advance bookings, up more than 20% from last year.
The report is researched and written for the Society of London Theatre by Richard Andrews of Performance Report, and analyses audience trends, ticket prices, differences between the commercial and subsidised sector and looks at patterns in category of production, for example, comparing attendance at dance, plays and musicals.
The unique in-depth analysis means that the report is essential reading for theatre investors, producers, theatre marketers and box office managers, as well as those in academic and government sectors dealing with the performing arts.
The report is available now for £45 (+£1.75 postage and packing).
For enquiries or to place your credit card order, please call 020 7557 6700.
JFC