Live Music Thrives Post-Pandemic Amid Soaring Costs

As Australia emerges from the clutches of the pandemic, venues across the country have seen a surge in attendance for live performances. Fans have exhibited strong enthusiasm, going the extra mile, and often paying up to 50% more to catch their beloved artists and theatrical shows in action. Iconic performers and productions, such as Guns N’ Roses, Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, and the Broadway sensations Hamilton and Frozen, have played pivotal roles in the revival of the live music and performance scene.

The Boom in Audiences and Ticket Sales

The lockdown's end triggered a near-record turnout, with over 24 million attendees showing up to live shows, resulting in a staggering $2 billion in ticket sales. This data is second only to figures recorded since 2004 by Live Performance Australia (LPA), signaling a remarkable rebound for the sector.

Challenges Still Facing the Live Performance Industry

Nevertheless, the industry faces considerable challenges. Despite the uptick in attendance and willingness to pay higher ticket prices—averaging a 30% increase to $90—the sector is gridlocked with spiraling production and touring costs that could throttle its growth. Rising daily living costs are also leading consumers to be more selective and purchase tickets later, adding strain to the industry.

Moreover, moving shows between major cities has become substantially more expensive, with a 40% increase in transport costs alone. These lingering economic pressures test the sector's resilience, even as it recovers from the devastating impacts of COVID-19.

Looking Ahead: Growth Through Big Acts and Continuous Challenges

Looking forward, industry experts are cautiously optimistic. Upcoming tours by stars like Taylor Swift promise to further energize ticket sales and attendance. However, the executive minds of LPA understand that increasing ticket prices is not a sustainable strategy in the context of the current cost-of-living crisis. The sector continues to navigate the post-COVID environment, grappling with skill shortages and changing audience dynamics, while smaller and non-profit organizations struggle without the buffer of COVID support.

music, theatre, recovery