Increasing numbers ‘unsure about future theatre attendance’

A survey has found that theatre audiences who usually buy the "most affordable" tickets are disproportionately concerned about a drop in their disposable income.

The October 2022 UK Performing Arts Survey garnered 1,000 responses from the audiences of 38 theatres. Of those who look for the "most affordable" seats, 41% said that over the next six months they expect their disposable income to reduce a lot, or to have little or no disposable income.

This compares with 20% of audiences who usually purchase the "best available" tickets.

In the next 12 months, only 6% of respondents expected their attendance at live performances to decrease, compared with pre-pandemic levels.

This rises to 8% for those who usually pay less than £15 for a ticket; purchase the most affordable tickets; or have a health problem or disability that significantly limits their activity.

The survey is managed by TRG Arts/Purple Seven on behalf of participating venues.

TRG Arts UK Managing Director Tony Followell said: “It is concerning to that see the numbers who are unsure about their future attendance is growing.

"Venue managers should be acting now to ensure their pricing strategies are fit for purpose in the challenging times ahead.”