The business of Broadway is explored, discussing the challenges faced by actors and producers, raising capital for shows, the immersive experience of investing, and the uncertainties of the industry. The impact of the pandemic on theater and personal theater journeys are also discussed.
Original productions and shows without star power are struggling to find audiences in Broadway's recovery from the pandemic.
The majority of Broadway shows fail to recoup their investment, highlighting the high-risk nature of investing in the industry.
Deep dives
Challenges faced by Broadway
The podcast discusses the challenges facing Broadway in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Audience numbers are down, with a 17% decrease in ticket sales compared to pre-pandemic levels. While some shows with recognized titles and stars continue to do well, original productions and shows without star power are struggling to find audiences. Additionally, the costs of producing and running shows have increased, including labor organization expenses and rising operating costs. The podcast highlights the need for new revenue streams, resource sharing, and streaming opportunities to help sustain and broaden Broadway's audience.
The Economics of Broadway
The economics of Broadway are challenging, with the majority of shows struggling to recoup their investment. Only one new show in 2023 has recouped its initial investment, highlighting the high risk nature of the industry. Shows with recognizable titles and stars have a greater chance of success, while non-IP based shows are finding it harder to attract audiences. The overall attendance from all groups, including locals and tourists, is still below pre-pandemic levels. Running costs have also increased, including union labor costs, shipping costs, and rising material expenses. These factors make it difficult for shows to break even and sustain profitability.
Investing in Broadway
Investing in Broadway is a high-risk venture, with the majority of shows failing to make a profit. A show's financial success is often uncertain, with only around 20% of shows recouping their initial investment. The cost of producing and running a show has increased, with musicals now costing upwards of $20 million. Investors must be accredited and financially able to handle the potential loss of their investment. Despite the financial risks, some investors are drawn to Broadway for the love of the art form and the opportunity to be involved in the industry. They see potential for high returns if a show becomes a hit and sustains long-term success.
Reviving and Supporting Broadway
Reviving and supporting Broadway requires finding new revenue streams and reducing costs. The industry can explore resource sharing and collaboration to lower expenses, as well as leverage streaming platforms to reach broader audiences. Government support through tax credits and increased funding for arts and culture can also aid in revitalizing Broadway. However, the economics of Broadway remain challenging, and it is crucial to strike a delicate balance between recouping costs and ticket prices, while broadening the market through innovation and investment in the future of the industry.
We raise the curtain on the business of New York’s iconic theatre district. Broadway has been struggling with rising costs and falling sales since the pandemic, but its financial drama started much earlier. The economic plot just doesn’t make sense. Will the lights go out on the Great White Way?
Hosts: Alice Fulwood, Tom Lee-Devlin and Mike Bird. Guests: The Economist’s Stevie Hertz; actor Leanna Rae Conception; Megan O'Keefe, executive vice-president of production company No Guarantees; Broadway investor, Ken Willman; Oliver Roth, CEO and producer at OHenry Productions, Kate Shindle, president of Actors’ Equity; and Lee Seymour, producer.
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