Why London is the Theatre Capital of the World

It’s official – London is now the theatre capital of the world. A new study published by the Society of London Theatre and the National Theatre has revealed that London has the biggest theatre audience of any city on the planet, beating even New York.

Theatre-lovers have long extolled London’s dramatic virtues, but now there are facts and figures to back up claims that London is the greatest theatre city on earth. The study found that attendance rose to over 22 million people in London theatres in 2012/2013.

The new study’s figures give vital insight into just why and how London packs such a punch when it comes to the theatre. Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: ‘London is without doubt the theatre capital of the world and theatre is hugely important to our economy. This timely report provides food for thought about what is needed to ensure we enjoy many more encores for years to come.’

Venues

Many Londoners claim their venues are the best in the world. The variety in the city is overwhelming, from tiny cutting edge experimental theatre studios and 30-seat pub venues to the glittering West End’s historic stages and groundbreaking icons like the National Theatre.

It’s not just the stunning history of the city’s theatrical venues, it’s the architecture. London is home to some of the most beautiful theatres on the planet, and these aesthetics play a major part in drawing audiences to the capital and through the doors. Who can fail to be caught up in the excitement of the West End theatre district, with names in lights, huge glittering billboards, and grandiose theatre after theatre lining the streets.

Talented actors and actresses

London has long attracted not just the finest acting talent, but the world’s best new writers, choreographers, stage designers and directors. Drawn to this vibrant city by the opportunities on offer within the theatre world, London’s longstanding theatrical history is also a major attraction. From Shakespeare to Jerry Springer the Opera, the city has long pushed the boundaries of theatre, and continues to lure Hollywood’s finest to tread the boards.

Well-supported

London is a city that allows for the best subsidised theatre and new writing in the world. A thriving theatre community keeps things fresh, exciting, and audience numbers high. It means that there’s a show for everyone. Experimental theatre that is designed to challenge audiences and the status quo is given the chance to flourish, while blockbuster musicals are given the support they need to make it big in the capital too.

As well as the triumphant attendance figures, the study revealed some more fascinating stats that go to prove that London is a city packed with theatre lovers.

• Looking for somewhere to see a show? You’ll now find 241 professional theatre spaces in London - 135 not-for-profit theatres, 59 commercial and 47 fringe
• The city’s theatres made more than £618.5 million in 2012/2013 – more than London’s cinema box office takings
• The smallest theatre in London is the Lord Stanley pub – 30 people can squeeze in here – while the largest is the uniquely grand London Coliseum, which seats 2,359
• Ticket prices fell from 2011/2012 – 2012/2013, meaning attending the theatre became more affordable for all - the average ticket price paid in London was £27.76
• In the West End the average ticket price paid was £36.05
• Tourists love London theatre as much as the locals - around three in ten West End audience members are from overseas

Out of all the London boroughs, Westminster and Camden account for more than half of all the theatre capacity in London.