Theatre. Live is beating streaming.
The West End sold 17 million tickets in 2024, more than Broadway, a record. Theatre isn't just entertainment, it's fuelling the economy.
THE GIST ON THEATRE: "Infrastructure"
How big was the West End's year?
In 2024 the West End sold 17 million tickets, more than Broadway, and a record. It's not just London: regional theatres saw a 4% uptick compared with pre-pandemic levels.
What does theatre do for the economy?
For every pound spent, £1.27 was spent in ancillary businesses like hotels, shops and restaurants. So theatre isn't just entertainment, it's fuelling the economy.
Why is live winning?
Huw thinks people are getting screen fatigue, tired of the churn of online content. They crave live, tangible experiences with other people, and theatre delivers that in a way streamers can't.
As demand grows, prices rise, so the next challenge is accessibility. But when theatre outstrips retail, hospitality and tourism in its recovery, it should change how we view the arts: not as entertainment, but as infrastructure for the economy.
Is theatre worth the price?
Your take. One tap, then see how everyone else voted.
Quick answers
How many tickets did the West End sell in 2024?
17 million, more than Broadway, a record.
How much extra is spent around theatre?
For every pound spent, £1.27 was spent in hotels, shops and restaurants.
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