‘The extraordinary power of live theatre to invigorate a region’
The financial benefits of the Theatre Royal Plymouth are estimated to be £53.3 million, according to managers. The figures are based around the financial year of 2024 / 2025 and are up from £45.9m the previous year.
Bosses say it marks the most successful period in the theatre’s history. Theatre goers might not be too surprised to read the news as major West End and world-renowned productions chose TRP as their key touring destination for the South West region.
‘Last year’s economic impact demonstrates the extraordinary power of live theatre to invigorate a region,’ says James Mackenzie-Blackman, TRP’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director.
‘Hosting world class productions like Hamilton not only enriches our cultural landscape but also delivers real, measurable benefits to local businesses and communities.’
‘We’re proud to play a central role in the economic and cultural vitality of Plymouth.’
A defining moment was the internationally acclaimed musical Hamilton, which played a six week summer run. It sold 53,000 tickets across its 46 performances with sales logged from as far away as Malaysia, Australia and the USA.
Other renowned shows to take to TRP’s Lyric stage include Disney’s Mary Poppins, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Fawlty Towers and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Theatre Royal Plymouth explains the influx of visitors delivered a ‘substantial boost to local hotels, restaurants, transport providers, retail businesses and cultural attractions throughout Plymouth and neighbouring areas.’
‘Delivers real, measurable benefits to local businesses and communities’
Throughout 2025, for 100 different productions, the theatre sold 373,133 tickets across more than 651 performances.
TRP’s studio theatre, The Drum, remains ever popular with last year seeing a total of 37 productions and 253 performances taking place there with a total sale of 22,150 tickets.
Looking ahead to this year, TRP is preparing to produce a brand-new production of FAME The Musical as well as hosting blockbuster shows including Matilda The Musical, Miss Saigon, Legally Bonde, Moulin Rouge, Cats and Mrs Doubtfire.
Breaktime News recently reported on the announcement for this year’s pantomime at TRP.
