Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn and the Old Market Hall sees increased visitor numbers
Visitor numbers at a town's two theatres are up three per cent on this time last year.
Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn and the Old Market Hall have seen the rise, while the town's museum also saw a rise of 6,000 visitors.
Councillor Steve Charmley, portfolio holder for corporate support, told a council cabinet meeting that almost a third of visitors to Theatre Severn in Frankwell have come from outside the county.
Shropshire Council's leader Peter Nutting joked that the Old Market Hall was so busy that every time he tried to book tickets the theatre was sold out.
Craig Reeves, marketing manager at the Theatre Severn, said the theatre had a record-breaking pantomime season last year.
He said: “We are really pleased with the continued increase in annual attendances at both Theatre Severn and the Old Market Hall, and thank our audiences for their support.
"The past year has seen another record-breaking pantomime season, major productions such as Joseph, Million Dollar Quartet, Shirley Valentine, and The Wedding Singer, alongside a host of big names in comedy, live music and showbiz, and another hugely popular film programme at the Old Market Hall.
"It is important that both venues continue to appeal to audiences of all ages, and attract visitors to Shrewsbury from across Shropshire and beyond.”
With extra performances of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs added to satisfy demand, the production ended in January after 68 performances, and the total attendance for the pantomime exceeded 40,000 people for the first time.
The pantomime is the seventh successful collaboration with Evolution Productions led by Telford-born Paul Hendy and his wife Emily Wood.
Hugely popular Dame and director Brad Fitt returned alongside BBC Radio Shropshire’s Eric Smith and a talented cast of performers, dancers and local children selected at open auditions in September.
Just days ago an audience at the Theatre Severn were treated to a question and answer session with Brian Blessed.
Coming up in the next few months are performances from Rich Hall, Martine McCutcheon, Lee Mead and Phil Jupitus.
For more information visit theatresevern.co.uk or oldmarkethall.co.uk
