HOUSTON, Texas (August 23, 2023) – The second annual Houston Theater Week delivers an outstanding performance! Preliminary numbers indicate Houstonians have given the Buy One, Get One Free ticket deals a thumbs up. For one week, August 14-20, 2023, consumers were able to choose from more than 200 performances of diverse shows, including world premieres, critically acclaimed plays, intimate concerts, innovative new concepts and holiday classics offered by a range of organizations.
The response from performing arts groups and consumers has surpassed expectations. This year’s combined revenue from ticket sales increased by more than 50 percent!
| 2022 | 2023 | |
| No. of Performing Arts Shows Offered | 107 | 200+ |
| Reported Combined Tickets Sold | 17,594 | 24,864 |
| Reported Combined Rev. from Tickets Sold | $572,223 | $867,035 |
Houston is fortunate to have a thriving performing arts community, however the story is not as encouraging in other parts of the country. According to the non-profit advocacy organization, Theatre Communications Group (TCG), more than a quarter of regional theatres across the country defined their current state as "struggling." In a recent survey of more than 150 regional theaters, TCG found that nearly 60 percent of theaters are budgeting for deficits in the upcoming fiscal year--a strong indicator of the economic challenges that lie ahead. “From rising costs to declining audiences, theatres are facing a set of compounding crises,” said Corinna Schulenburg, Director of Communications, Theatre Communications Group.
“Houston’s dynamic theater community is one of our strongest assets and exposing new audiences to these performing arts groups will help ensure they thrive—that’s why Theater Week matters,” said Michael Heckman, president and CEO, Houston First. “Since we launched this initiative last year in collaboration with the performing arts groups, Houston Theater Week has generated nearly $1.5 million in revenue. Keeping artists and other performing arts professionals working and our theater scene vibrant is the goal, and we are proud of what we’ve collectively accomplished so far.”
2023’s participating organizations are:
• Alley Theatre
• Chamber Music Houston
• DACAMERA
• Dirt Dogs Theatre Co.
• 4th Wall Theatre Company
• Houston Ballet
• Houston Chamber Choir
• Houston Grand Opera
• Houston Symphony
• Main Street Theater
• Mercury Chamber Orchestra
• Performing Arts Houston
• ROCO
• Stages
• Tee Zee Productions
• The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
• Theatre Under the Stars
About Houston First Corporation:
Houston First Corporation (HFC) is a local government corporation and the official destination marketing organization for the country's fourth largest city. In addition to serving as operator for the George R. Brown Convention Center and some of Houston's most prominent art, entertainment, and event venues, HFC is focused on promoting the city's vibrancy and rich tapestry of culture. By harnessing the city's collective energy, ambition, and creativity, including its diverse culinary scene, world-renowned performing arts, medical and space innovation, and elite filming locations, HFC is solidifying Houston as a premier national and global destination. For the latest news and info regarding HFC, visit www.houstonfirst.com.
HFC Contacts:
pr@houstonfirst.com
Carolyn Campbell (832) 982-9902
Jennie Bui-McCoy (832) 374-3994
Celia Morales (713) 444-0507
