15 May 2009

Broadway still selling tickets despite recession

10:35 am on 15 May 2009

The Broadway theatre district in New York is doing well despite the recession.

The Broadway League industry group says 30 years of attendance data for Broadway houses during recessionary periods shows the district is virtually impervious to economic declines.

Executive director Charlotte St. Martin says many Americans may be scrapping plans for vacations in Europe or elsewhere and traveling to New York City to see Broadway shows instead.

Among the most successful new productions is a revival of the 1967 tribal rock musical Hair.

According to Broadway League data, it has grossed over $US7 million since performances began in March. A new revival of the 1957 musical West Side Story has taken almost $US13 million since January.

Tourists account for the majority of the audiences: foreigners comprise an estimated 65%.