West End theatres break records despite credit crunch

The growing economic crisis has little effect on London theatres, it has emerged, with takings rising to a record high.

According to the Society of London Theatre (SOLT), box office takings rose by three per cent, up to £480.6 million.

Ticket sales also rose, with 13.8 million sold, a one per cent increase on 2007.

Though there were signs of a slowdown in the months before Christmas, and shows such as Girl With a Pearl Earring were forced to close early, a strong seasonal period helped boost annual figures, SOLT confirmed.

"Last year was a record-breaking year, we didn't expect to surpass it or match it," society president Nica Burns told BBC News.

"The bottom line is we have very good shows on, full of creative talent both on stage and backstage. It shows we really are the theatre capital of the world."

The SOLT represents 52 theatres in the capital, including all the commercial West End venues - typically the home of lucrative musicals - as well as leading grant-aided theatres.

Sir Cameron Mackintosh, producer of the current Oliver! revival, recently introduced a 'Crunch Buster' family discount ticket, and Ms Burns explained a trip to the theatre is not always as expensive as many presume.

"If you are on a tight budget you can shop around and find a ticket that's affordable," she added.

"Unlike Broadway we have a much wider spread of tickets - balcony seats are within most budgets and you can often pick up a good seat at a good price."