Well over a quarter of every pound spent on theatre tickets in 2016 went to musicals according to figures released by UK Theatre as part of the organisation’s 2013-2016 Sales Data Report.
An increase of over £32 million in the annual income from musicals translated into the impressive fact that 39 pence of every pound taken in ticket sales was for a musical.
The comprehensive analysis of sales data by genre and venue type provided by UK Theatre members emphasised the strength and resilience of the theatre and performing arts sector in this country.
From increases in productions and performances to fuller houses and higher ticket prices paid, growth was reported across all sectors.
Overall the number of performances of musicals grew by 23%, ticket sales increased by 16 % and box office income grew by 21%.
Of particular interest to those looking to the future of theatregoing in the UK was a 42% increase in box office income for family theatre.
The figures also revealed pantomime has overtaken comedy as the genre that fills most seats – in 2016 75% of the available tickets for pantomime were sold. Panto also experienced the biggest growth in average price paid from 15% to £20.77 and although musicals showed the lowest growth (5% to £32.54) the genre still remains the highest priced genre.
Fiona Allan, the president of UK Theatre, said: “Our sector has many reasons to be cheerful. This report is a vote of confidence for the industry in challenging times. We’re continuing to attract audiences, and as an industry we’re showing remarkable resilience during a time of unprecedented financial pressure. These figures demonstrate the vital importance of the arts to the national economy, and show that theatre remains a popular and important part of our cultural life in the UK.”
Angela Thomas
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