Philly's performing arts sector still adjusting to new norm
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Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios
Attendance for many local arts and culture organizations has rebounded from the pandemic, but the performing arts sector is still adjusting to the "new normal."
Driving the news: Nearly 33% of 112 organizations surveyed around Philadelphia say attendance has met or exceeded pre-pandemic levels compared to just 10% in 2022, per the latest PA CultureCheck report from the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance and PA Humanities.
- But that figure was only 15% for the performing arts sector.
Why it matters: The arts and culture scene is part of the region's broader appeal and a major economic driver for an area that relies on millions of visitors every year.
Zoom in: Attendance is an important metric for our cultural organizations, nearly 75% of which operate off an annual budget under $1.5 million, per the report.
- About a quarter of respondents said they are hopeful attendance fully returns to pre-pandemic levels within the next year or so.
- More than half of organizations say they are still struggling to hire after being forced to reduce staff and programming during the pandemic.
What they're saying: "It's clear that we still have a long road ahead to ensure a strong future for our arts and culture sector," Patricia Wilson Aden of the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance said in a statement. "A healthy creative sector has a profound ripple effect in communities and economies across the state."
What we're watching: Organizations are adjusting, with some people preferring a remote experience.
- There's also been a trend away from the subscription model, especially in the performing arts sector, amid more demand for single tickets to shows and events.