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<p>This is typical but most theatre fans aren’t aware how difficult funding is for most theatre companies. A good amount of time is spent wooing (and keeping) generous donors and corporate sponsorships, completing lengthy grant applications, all while operating on what most would consider a shoestring budget. </p>
<p>Broadway is no different, really. Don’t be fooled by attendance numbers in the millions. Only about one in five Broadway shows ‘covers its nut’, i.e., recoups its investment. When it isn’t unusual for a musical to require $20 million capitalization before anyone even sets foot on stage, the chances of anyone making a profit, are slim, unless it is one of the fortunate ones that ends up running for years and years. Most shows don’t. Have a look at shows opening and closing each year and it’s easy to see how so few make money.</p>
<p>Although SOM had some issues, it did reach 18 million people. If even a small percentage of those people decide to spend some money and go to the theatre to see a show, that’s great. Perhaps one or more of Carrie’s colleagues or friends will make a donation to their local theatre company as a result of her being in the show. Again, great. Stranger things have happened. You never know who is in an audience and who may be inspired to get involved, or to hire a particular actor they like. One thing to think about, especially at this time of year, if you have a favorite theatre company in your town, consider making a donation to them, maybe in honor of your theatre kid. Some of them even have charitable status so you’ll get a tax receipt. </p>
<p>Not every show you see is going to be a winner in every way, even on Broadway. It’s the nature of the beast.</p>