Theatre Business
Introduction
Theatre isn't just an art form; it's also a business. From paying rent, to turning on the lights, to securing royalties, to writing contracts for actors--there are a lot of business elements to make sure a company runs smoothly! This guide will introduce you to how the business and money of theatre works.
Terminology
- Box Office: The front office of the theatre that handles ticketing, reservations, and other audience needs. “Box office” can also refer to the revenue generated from ticket sales.
- Commercial Theatre: A type of theatre with the financial goal to make a substantial profit for its owners and investors.
- Grant: A type of donation or gift to a theatre company, usually awarded after an application process. Many grants have specific requirements that need to be fulfilled.
- Marketing: Advertisement and promotion for the theatre, season of shows, and other events.
- Non-profit Theatre: A type of theatre that, while making money to cover operational costs, does not make a substantial profit.
Context & Analysis
A successful theatre is recognized as a business, and just like any business, requires a team and strategy to manage the financial aspects of the company. When it comes to business in theatre, there are generally two business structures: commercial and non-profit. A commercial theatre (like many of the Broadway theatres) sets out to make a hefty profit for its owners and
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Cindi Calhoun
Theatre teacher, director, writer, and seamstress