Key Trends for Major Performing Arts in Australia | report published

The headline figures of a new study into Australia’s Major Performing Arts sector in 2012 reveal encouraging growth in audience numbers, employment, new work presented and box office revenue across the 28 leading Australian companies, according to a new report from the Australia Council.

The snapshot of key trends report has been compiled by the Australia Council to inform the ongoing work of its Major Performing Arts Panel. It found 3.6 million Australians attended a performance, workshop or school activity by a Major Performing Arts company last year, an increase of 118,000 compared to 2011.

Australia Council CEO, Tony Grybowski said the analysis was significant as it confirmed the Major Performing Arts sector continues to play a central and vital role in Australian cultural life.

“In 2012 artistic achievement in our Major Performing Arts sector was strong, with Australians attending almost 6,000 performances, including world premiere performances of 108 new Australian works and almost eight million people listened or watched a radio broadcast, TV or cinema screening of performances by MPA companies” Mr Grybowski said.

“There is also very encouraging news around the viability and sustainability of the sector. The findings show the 28 Major Performing Arts companies posted a combined operating surplus of $12.7 million, including a healthy increase in box office income.

“That is a fantastic sign for the future of a sector that employs 8,400 people, including 4,600 artists.”

The report covers trends in overseas activity and audience numbers for Australian performances abroad.

Read full announcement and download report ....