The Cost of Theater

Let get real people. Broadway tickets cost way too much, but is that cost way too much. I think so, it would certainly hurt my wallet to go watch one if I was in New York. But sadly, its not over priced, because even thought it would hurt my wallet, i would still go watch it. They are worth that for me, and also for all the people who fill up the theaters every day. If you pay for it, then its worth it for you.  Simple right? 

Now, obviously costs change depending on where you seat, when you buy them, where it is, how bad it was, and so many other things. In Broadway or anywhere. Do you know how much it costs to put up a play in Broadway.  A lot, a whole lot of money. Goodness gracious , a lot.  It ranges from $2.5 million to $75 million. After I read this, I had to breathe in and breathe out a little, because my mind cannot grasp how much money that is. I've never seen that much money in my life. Crazy!!  In London , it the cost of putting on a play is much less. It is about $670,000.

Now, Broadway plays ( The dream of every actor and actress) are only the highest point. Thus very costly. But my oh my, you can easily make a play that is very much cheap.  With endless option, from making the stage in your back yard, and having student actors there just for the experience.  One cost is inevitable though. And that is the right to put on a play that is not yours, unless you write it.  

Of course, if you want to make a good play, then rent a theater, get outfits, for the different actors, and if they don't fit, then you need to fix that. Which also costs.  The music costs, renting a place to practice costs. Everything costs, yet the good thing about this art, is that you can get all kinds of prices, from free to a million dollar theater. It's really all up you, and the work you are willing to put on it, if you want to save money. One thing to keep in mind is, if you are going to charge a price that people might not pay, then you better give good publicity, and make it worth their money.  

I asked Mrs. Hegle how much, our drama teacher how much a play in our small school, ICSL, would cost more or less. It would be a good performance. This is what she told me it would , more or less.
"250 Spotlights for two productions
400 Scripts for two productions for up to 18 students and 2 teachers 200 Royalties if each show is done twice (even if in house rehearsal for elementary) -------------- 850 subtotal 600 costumes 600 set/props 150 programs & advertising 250 snacks ------------------ 2,450 100 misc. flowers -------------------- 2,550 (1,275 per semester)"