Industry Pro Newsletter: BroadwayWorld Announces New Ticketmaster Partnership, A New In-Memorium Plan on Broadway
Plus, Kennedy Center updates, Ukraine's cultural resilience, and England's potential arts funding boost.
By: Alex Freeman Mar. 17, 2025
This week, BroadwayWorld and Ticketmaster announced a new partnership, and we’re taking a realistic look at the arts' ongoing recovery from the pandemic. Plus, we've got updates on Broadway's new "In Memoriam" and some positive labor news. Regionally, we're covering the happenings at the Kennedy Center, theaters tackling financial hurdles, and leadership changes. On the international front, we're highlighting the incredible resilience of Ukrainian artists and a potential game-changer for England's cultural funding.
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A.R.T./New York invites all theatremakers to the 2nd annual Spring Summit — April 2-4! In addition to an incredible lineup of panel discussions, hands-on workshops and networking events, the A.R.T./New York team will share early findings from the Health and Wealth Data Project.
Register for the A.R.T./New York Spring Summit!
Employment Opportunity
Literary Manager & Casting Associate - American Conservatory Theater
The Literary Manager and Casting Associate will function as a valued member of a close-knit team, tasked with re-examining and re-imagining how we can better serve our communities of artists and audiences. Each member of the Artistic Staff is an ambassador to and fosters healthy relationships with artists locally and nation-wide.
Industry Trends
BroadwayWorld and Ticketmaster Launch Partnership; Meet Marla Ostroff
BroadwayWorld has announced a new partnership with Ticketmaster, aiming to enhance the ticket-buying experience for theatergoers. Marla Ostroff, Ticketmaster’s President of North America, discussed the collaboration’s goals, focusing on improved access and customer service. This venture intends to provide streamlined access to tickets and exclusive content. The partnership seeks to leverage both platforms' strengths to benefit the theater community.
The New York Times: Five Years Later, Arts Still Reeling From Covid's Impact
Five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the arts sector continues to face lingering challenges. The article details the ongoing struggles of theaters, music venues, and art institutions in recovering from pandemic-related closures. Financial instability and shifts in audience behavior are cited as major obstacles. The article highlights how the arts are still navigating the long-term effects of the crisis.
Broadway/New York
Broadway to Introduce Quarterly Broadway In Memoriam To Honor Theater Legends
Broadway will begin a new quarterly "In Memoriam" segment to honor those who have passed away within the theater community. The segments will be presented to audiences before the start of performances. This initiative aims to provide a consistent and respectful way to remember theater legends. The quarterly remembrances will ensure that the contributions of these individuals are recognized.
Atlantic Theater Company and IATSE Reach Tentative Agreement
The Atlantic Theater Company and IATSE have reached a tentative agreement, averting a potential labor dispute. The agreement covers stagehands and other behind-the-scenes workers. Details of the contract include improved wages and working conditions. The agreement is subject to ratification by IATSE members.
Broadway Backwards Raises Record $1,111,788
Broadway Backwards 2025 raised a record-breaking $1,111,788 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The event featured performances where gender roles were reversed in classic Broadway songs. The star-studded event showcased numerous Broadway performers. Photos from the night highlight the creative and powerful performances.
Regional
Curtains Fall at the Kennedy Center - What is Trump Doing and Why?
Rachel Schmaier dives into the various updates from the Kennedy Center and looks at whether or not there is an overarching plan to what Trump is doing with the nation's flagship arts center.
IATSE President Meets With Kennedy Center Workers Amid Cancellation Concerns
The IATSE President met with workers at the Kennedy Center following recent cancellation concerns. The meeting aimed to address the workers' concerns and ensure their support. Discussions focused on the circumstances surrounding the recent event and its impact on the workforce. The IATSE President sought to reassure workers and address potential labor issues.
CultureOC: South Coast Repertory Endured a Rough Year, But Sees Opportunities Ahead
South Coast Repertory experienced significant financial challenges during the past year. Despite these difficulties, the theater is focusing on future opportunities and plans for recovery. The theater is implementing strategies to improve its financial stability and audience engagement. Plans include new productions and community outreach initiatives. South Coast Repertory aims to revitalize its presence in the community.
American Theatre: Cheryl Collins Named Exec Director of Orlando Shakes
Cheryl Collins has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Orlando Shakes. Collins brings extensive experience in theater administration to the role. She will oversee the company's operations and strategic planning. Collins' appointment marks a new chapter for Orlando Shakes.
International
AP News: In Chernihiv Theater, Women keep culture alive as war rages
In Chernihiv, Ukraine, women are working to maintain cultural life at the local theater amidst the ongoing war. They are determined to preserve their cultural heritage and provide a sense of normalcy.
The Stage: Tourist tax in England could drive billions into culture, report
A new report suggests that implementing a tourist tax in England could generate billions of pounds for the cultural sector. The funds could be used to support theaters, museums, and other cultural institutions. The report outlines the potential economic benefits of the tax. It proposes that the tax could revitalize the arts and culture industry.
Missed our last few newsletters?
March 10, 2025 - NEA Reverses Course on Gender Policy, Rockwell to Renovate the Laurie Beechman
We delve into the shifting tides of arts funding, from the NEA's controversial policy changes to the crucial need for increased support in NYC public schools. We also examine the profound impact of political appointments on cultural institutions, as seen in the "Hamilton" cancellation and the Kennedy Center's board changes. Additionally, we honor the legacy of a theatrical giant with the passing of Athol Fugard.
This week's newsletter is packed with everything from big legal battles to the nitty-gritty of box office numbers. We're diving into new legal rulings around drag and AI, and figuring out what's next for marketing now that social media's changing. Plus, we've got the scoop on Broadway's winter wins, a new developmental agreement, and a look at how the arts factor into London’s ten-year plans.
February 24, 2025 - NEA Clarifies Grant Changes, Promising Signs from a New Audience Behavior Study
We'll unpack the NEA's latest grant guidelines (including the loss of Challenge America), celebrate the work of Broadway Cares', and share some genuinely good news about audiences returning to theaters. Plus, we've got updates on new leadership, labor victories, and international investments that are shaping the future of the performing arts.
BroadwayWorld Resources
BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program
The digital solution to your show program needs - want to see what's possible? Check out the Stage Mag's for A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and for The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)! Then start building your own at stagemag.broadwayworld.com.
Add Your Show to our Regional Events Calendar
As audiences get set to return to in-person performances, and as your company works to market your own return to the stage, make sure you've got your upcoming shows in our regional events calendars. Listings are free of charge, with boosting options available. Get your show listed now
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