The Broadway League has released end-of-season statistics for the 2008 – 2009 season, which began May 26, 2008 and ended May 24, 2009.

Broadway shows grossed approximately $943.3 million, compared to the previous season’s $937.5 million. *

As of the week ending May 24, 2009 (Week 52), cumulative grosses are up 0.6% and are 6 million ahead of last season, culminating in the best season in our history.

For the 52-week period ending May 24, 2009, paid attendance at Broadway shows was 12.15 million, as compared to 12.27 million last season.*

This season, 43 shows opened (10 new musicals, 8 new plays, 4 musical revivals, 16 play revivals, and 5 special performances), which is the highest number of shows since the 1982-1983 Season when 50 productions opened.

Charlotte St. Martin, Executive Director of The Broadway League, said, “It’s been an inspiring season! As we have proven, if you put on a great show, people will come -- even in the midst of an economic downturn. Research has shown that theatre provides escape from everyday life and especially during these tough times, we have given the audiences a reason to see a show.”

She continues, “As illustrated this season, our members, the creative teams, and our industry’s unions & guilds are committed to delivering the highest quality productions. To break a record compared with previous seasons gives an exciting end to a spectacular season, and of course we hope the momentum continues into next year.”

Season totals with YF estimates added in *

Season totals without YF    

Note: The Broadway League has been collecting data since 1957.

* Utilizing the estimates for Young Frankenstein (Previews began 10/11/07, closed 1/4/09. 32 weeks played during the 08-09 season; 33 weeks played during the 07-08 season.)