The Palace Theatre & Opera House (PT&OH), is proud to share the findings of its most recent annual impact report, revealing a landmark year across visitor numbers, economic contribution, employment, and creative learning
During this record-breaking year, PT&OH welcomed a notable 865,823 ticketholders, the most of any cultural venue in the North of England.
In addition to the significant impact these visitors had on the Greater Manchester economy, this milestone emphasises the venue’s position as a leading destination for world-class theatre and cultural experiences.
The organisation directly employed 446 people across a wide range of roles, with team members living in 27 of Manchester’s 31 wards, reflecting a deep commitment to local opportunity and inclusive employment.
The launch of a brand new Creative Learning department reached 69 schools and close to 5,000 participants in its inaugural year, underlining the PT&OH’s unwavering mission to inspire, educate and engage communities and future theatre fans through the arts. The department has continued to go from strength to strength, with new initiatives regularly conceived and delivered, including Work In Theatre workshops, a Relaxed Young Company and Family Participatory Tours.
53% of all ticketholders were based in Greater Manchester, while the remaining visitors represented audiences from across the UK and further afield. More than 76,000 attendees came from some of the country’s most deprived communities, showcasing the theatre’s tangible commitment to social impact by making theatre accessible for all.
A major highlight of the year was the UK Tour premiere of Hamilton, which attracted over 230,000 ticket sales – the highest of any show this year – and generated more than 235 media features, reviews and interviews.
In total, PT&OH contributed £70.05 million to Manchester’s economy through its day-to-day operations. An additional £22 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) was generated through capital investments, reinforcing the theatre’s vital role in supporting and strengthening the region’s economic and cultural landscape.
