Norwich?s Theatre Royal has announced a surplus for the year 2001-2002, of nearly £76,500 on a turnover of in excess of £4m, the fourth consecutive year of surplus, and the eighth out of the nine completed years of trading.
The Theatre, which operates one of the country?s most successful Friends schemes, has published its now regular Annual Survey analysing its performance during the previous 12 months. In its latest survey, the Friends scheme boasts more than 10,500 members ? an annual increase of 4.7%, generating a net income to the theatre of nearly £220,000, without which it is claimed, the theatre could not be sustained. An average capacity at its performances of 67% was achieved, a 2% increase on the previous year, representing 338,000 total ticket sales. The survey calculates that the theatre contributed £3.4m to the local economy, and compares itself with 18 similar-sized theatres across the country, claiming to have sold 116,000 more tickets to 55 more performances than the average. Speaking at the announcement of the figures, Norwich Theatre Royal Chairman, Jonathan Barclay said ?the surplus we have achieved this year will enable us to put money back into maintaining the building, ultimately enabling us to survive?. For a copy of the Survey
e: j.walsh@theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk