Overview

• Theatre production costs are rising faster than inflation, threatening the financial viability of UK venues, according to a new report.
• Nearly 40% of surveyed theatres could close or become unusable within five years without substantial capital funding.
• The report urges the government to allocate £500 million for infrastructure improvements and support access initiatives like Theatre for Every Child.
• Since 2010, public funding for theatres has declined significantly, with DCMS support falling 18% per person and local authority funding dropping 48%.
• Despite record attendance of over 37 million in 2024 and the West End generating £1 billion in revenue, ageing infrastructure and financial pressures are straining the sector.