Record Bookings for West End in 2007

Figures released today by the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) show an astounding increase in the number of people visiting London's West End. A survey compiled from 53 major theatres in the area (both commercial and grant aided) proves that the musical is in fact more popular now than ever before.

Box office records show a total of 13,630,810 trips were made to theatre land in 2007 - a considerable increase from 2006's 12,357,153. The rise in numbers is also reflected in revenue: £469,729,135 was taken in 2007, up almost £70k on 2006. Much of the success is due to reality TV shows such as How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? and Any Dream Will Do. The increased coverage of the London Musical on terrestrial television has created a new breed of theatre goer. More of the British public are interested in what they have seen on the small screen and are flocking to the 'Theatre Capital of the World.'

This is evidently great for SOLT, who this year celebrate their centenary. President for the body, Rosemary Squire stated, "This is obviously great news for the industry, for all that work in it and for the UK economy... For the moment, I think we can all celebrate an on-going success story." There is, however, a shift in what sort of productions we are going to see. Musicals are on the up, whilst plays are seeing a decrease in numbers. This further supports the idea that reality TV is responsible.

2008 is set to break even more records with the addition of I'd do anything on the BBC. Hosted by Graham Norton under the watchful eye of Andrew Lloyd Webber, the show aims to find the new Oliver and Nancy to lead the show. With theatre proving so popular book your tickets for the top shows now with Show and Stay. We are the market leaders for London theatre breaks and have a best price policy meaning you find the same product cheaper anywhere else!

Published By: Jon Lane