Summary
A report shows that touring performances of plays, music, dance, and opera in England have dropped significantly, especially drama plays, which fell by nearly 70% from 2019 to 2024. The sector faces financial challenges due to rising costs, funding cuts, and lasting effects of the pandemic. Arts Council England plans to create a new support system to help improve touring.
Key Facts
- Touring performances of drama plays in England decreased by 72% between 2019 and 2024.
- Overall touring performances fell by 24% in the same period.
- Musicals and dance tours dropped by almost 50%.
- Smaller and mid-scale productions, new artists, and works by disabled and Global Majority artists face the biggest financial risks.
- Funding from local authorities has been cut, and Arts Council funding has not increased much.
- Many tours are now shorter and mostly happen in large cities and big venues.
- The pandemic and funding cuts made existing problems worse.
- Arts Council England will launch a new Touring Service to simplify and improve funding for touring shows.
