Finances

Last updated: July 29, 2026

2026

August 10, 2026

(Minneapolis, MN.) Hennepin Arts today announced the transformation of its 900 Hennepin building into an extension of the historic Orpheum Theatre. The renovation is the first major investment in the organization’s long-term vision for the Hennepin Theatre District and represents the initial step in strengthening one of downtown Minneapolis’ most iconic destinations.

The nearly $6 million project dramatically expands the Orpheum Theatre experience into the adjacent building, introducing more than 20 new lobby-level restrooms for all guests, expanded gathering spaces, a new Lexus Lounge for eligible donors, premium amenities and improved circulation throughout the theater complex. More importantly, it marks the first visible step toward a broader initiative to strengthen the District through thoughtful investment, historic preservation, vibrant programming and collaborative partnerships.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment as organizations across downtown Minneapolis work together to strengthen the city’s cultural core and create new reasons for people to live, work and gather downtown.

For the last year, Hennepin Arts has worked alongside public, private and nonprofit partners to develop a long-term vision throughout the District. That vision is now taking shape through projects that enhance the guest experience at the Orpheum while encouraging continued growth and revitalization throughout downtown Minneapolis.

“The Hennepin Theatre District has always been one of Minneapolis’ greatest cultural assets,” said Andrea Mokros, interim president/CEO of Hennepin Arts. “This investment reflects our belief that arts and culture will continue to play a leading role in the future of downtown. By improving the way people experience our theaters today, we’re laying the foundation for an even more vibrant district tomorrow.”

As a non-profit organization, Hennepin Arts relies on the generosity of donors, foundations, corporate partners and the community to preserve its historic theaters and protect their future. To help launch this transformational effort, an anonymous donor has established a leadership challenge gift that will match new contributions, creating an opportunity for supporters to double the impact of their generosity while helping accelerate the next phase of improvements.

“A vibrant arts district is about more than what happens on stage. Great cities need places that bring people together, and the Hennepin Theatre District has long played that role in Minneapolis,” said Angie O’Leary, Head of Wealth Strategies and Solutions, RBC Wealth Management – U.S. “We’re proud to support a vision for a welcoming District where arts and culture strengthen our community and inspire generations to come.”

“This ambitious effort reflects a growing belief that when arts, culture and public gathering spaces thrive, downtown Minneapolis thrives alongside them,” said Mokros.

Beginning in winter 2026, guests will enjoy an expanded Orpheum Theatre that stretches beyond its historic footprint into 900 Hennepin.

Improvements include:

  • More than 20 new lobby-level restrooms for all guests
  • A dramatically expanded lobby connecting the Orpheum and 900 Hennepin
  • Comfortable gathering spaces designed for guests to arrive early, linger longer and enjoy the surrounding District
  • Additional bars and concession locations
  • New arrival technology for faster guest arrival and entry
  • A new Lexus Lounge with premium amenities for eligible donors

Together, these enhancements create a more welcoming, accessible and seamless experience while preparing the Orpheum for decades to come.

While the renovation begins with one building, its purpose extends far beyond the Orpheum. The District initiative envisions a stronger, more connected corridor where historic theaters, businesses, restaurants, public art and gathering spaces work together to create an unmistakable destination in the heart of Minneapolis.

Rather than being defined by a single project, the District will evolve through many visible improvements over time, each building upon the last.

“Downtown Minneapolis succeeds when organizations mobilize behind a shared vision,” said Adam Duininck, president and CEO of the Minneapolis Downtown Council. “Reinvesting in key properties creates a better experience for visitors, supports nearby businesses, and adds to the momentum taking shape across the Hennepin Theatre District. We are grateful for their partnership and commitment to downtown.”

The future of the Hennepin Theatre District is already being shaped not only through construction, but through the experiences Hennepin Arts creates downtown every day. Each year more than half a million guests visit the organization’s historic theaters for Broadway performances, concerts, comedy shows, educational programming and community events.

Hennepin Arts activates the District year-round through programs including Spotlight Showcase, high school theater workshops, workforce development programs, hosting community and civic events, sensory-friendly performances and the new Summer Showtunes celebration. Together, these community initiatives create meaningful opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience the arts while making downtown Minneapolis a more vibrant place.

The renovation of 900 Hennepin is only the beginning. As additional partners join the effort and new opportunities emerge, the District will continue to evolve through thoughtful improvements, vibrant programming and collaborative partnerships. Each step forward builds on this momentum, bringing the District closer to becoming one of the nation’s premier arts and entertainment destinations.

August 6, 2026

(GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.)– August 6, 2026 – Broadway Grand Rapids just concluded its 2025– 2026 season, welcoming more than 145,000 patrons to 72 performances at DeVos Performance  Hall. The season generated an estimated $50.3 million* in local economic impact while expanding  opportunities for thousands of community members to experience live theater through Broadway Arts Access. 

The season featured acclaimed productions including The Outsiders, Water for Elephants, & Juliet, The Great Gatsby, and a three-week engagement of Disney’s The Lion King, which alone welcomed approximately 50,000 patrons to downtown Grand Rapids. Based on gross ticket sales of $12,575,765, the season generated an estimated $50,303,060 in local economic impact using The Broadway League’s economic impact multiplier of 4.0. The estimate reflects spending that supports local jobs, theater operations, advertising, and wages, as well as visitor spending at area  restaurants, hotels, parking facilities, and retail businesses. 

“The economic impact of Touring Broadway is significant,” remarked Meghan Distel, President & CEO of Broadway Grand Rapids. “Every performance brings people downtown to dine, shop, stay in local hotels, and support businesses throughout our community. At the same time, we’re creating shared cultural experiences that enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.” 

Broadway Grand Rapids also continued to deepen its investment in the West Michigan community through the Broadway Arts Access program and by forming strategic community partnerships. During the 2025–2026 season, the organization distributed 3,897 tickets, valued at more than  $182,000, to more than 70 community organizations, schools, and families, opening the doors of DeVos Performance Hall to many for the very first time. The program helps ensure that the transformative experience of live theater is accessible to individuals and families who might not  otherwise have the opportunity to attend. 

“Broadway Arts Access is one of the most meaningful ways we fulfill our mission,” added Distel. “We’re grateful to our donors and community partners who help ensure that the joy, inspiration, and  connection of live theater can be experienced by more people throughout West Michigan.” 

Looking ahead, Broadway Grand Rapids will welcome audiences back this fall with an exciting 2026–2027 season featuring Alicia Keyes’ Hell’s Kitchen, The Notebook, Maybe Happy Ending, SIX, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Death Becomes Her, and Phantom of the Opera. For tickets and more information visit http://www.BroadwayGrandRapids.com. 

* Estimates calculated using the research from the Economic Impact Study commissioned by The Broadway League.

August 5, 2026

 Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts today shared its Master Plan vision with the Orange County TDT Citizen Advisory Task Force, unveiling the next chapter in a vision first established more than a decade ago to strengthen Downtown Orlando as a premier cultural, entertainment and tourism destination. 
 
Shaped by an extensive five-year strategic planning and conceptual design process, the Master Plan fulfills the arts center’s original vision by growing opportunities for world-class performances, vibrant public gathering spaces and experiences that will drive economic impact and community benefits for generations to come. Independent analysis by Tourism Economics projects the completed vision could generate an additional $1.5 billion in economic impact over 20 years, including $538.1 million in off-site spending and support for hundreds of jobs across Central Florida. With the initial planning process complete, the “shovel-ready” Master Plan is positioned to move forward once funding is secured. 
 
Since opening in 2014, Dr. Phillips Center has welcomed more than 6.2 million guests and engaged more than 935,000 students and community participants through educational programs, field trips, partnerships and arts experiences. Today, the arts center welcomes approximately 910,000 guests annually from all 50 states and more than 80 countries for performances, events and programs.  
 
Now programmed 99% of the year, with its venues operating at 82% to 97% capacity, global demand for arts, cultural, wellness and community experiences continue to outpace Orange County’s capacity to accommodate residents, visitors and world-class programming. 
 
“The planning is done and our community has demonstrated its commitment to making it a reality,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president & CEO at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “This Master Plan represents a comprehensive strategy to expand our ability to serve residents, welcome visitors and strengthen Downtown Orlando and Orange County as a world-class cultural destination.”
 
Presented today, the Master Plan is organized into four interconnected components that together advances Dr Phillips Center’s ability to serve residents, attract visitors and strengthen Downtown Orlando as a year-round cultural destination. 
 
North Block
The North Block significantly expands the arts center’s performance and event capacity with a new 750-seat theater, 200-seat black box theater, 180-seat stage theater and an approximately 800-seat banquet and event venue, along with meeting rooms, food and beverage amenities, retail space and donor facilities. 
 
East Block
The East Block provides the operational infrastructure needed to support a world-class performing arts campus. It includes a new scenic shop, additional creative and education studios, a Global Arts & Wellness Institute, flexible performance space, administrative offices and additional parking. These investments strengthen the arts center’s ability to develop new productions, expand educational and wellness programming, and support continued growth in visitors and performances.  
 
Interior Improvements
The Master Plan also modernizes existing facilities through technology and production infrastructure upgrades, enhancements to Walt Disney Theater, expanded lobby and circulation areas, donor spaces, and food and beverage amenities. Such critical improvements ensure competitiveness on the global stage, enabling the arts center to continue meeting the expectations of audiences, touring productions and event organizers while supporting long-term operational sustainability. 
 
Frontyard & Seneff Arts Plaza
Finally, the Master Plan also provides for the transformation of the Frontyard and Seneff Arts Plaza into an iconic civic gathering space featuring a 4,000-capacity outdoor amphitheater, lush green spaces and water features, and supporting amenities designed to host approximately 1,000 free community events each year. While today’s funding request focuses on the North Block, East Block and interior improvements, a public funding commitment will serve as the catalyst to unlock this groundbreaking public space through philanthropy – allowing private investment to bring the community’s shared vision for the Frontyard to life. 
 
Ramsberger added, “More than 24,000 donors and more than $256 million in philanthropic commitments have demonstrated our community’s belief in this vision. We respectfully invite Orange County to continue its leadership by helping bring the next chapter to life for generations to come.”
 
For more information about Dr. Phillips Center and its long-term vision, visit drphillipscenter.org.

July 29, 2026

Orlando, FL —Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts generated $227.6 million in annual economic impact, which supported 2,483 jobs and drove $13.2 million in state and local tax revenue, according to a newly released independent analysis by Tourism Economics. The findings reinforce the arts center’s role as both a world-class cultural destination and a significant economic driver of Central Florida.
 
Conducted by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company specializing in economic impact and tourism analysis, the study measured the direct, indirect and induced economic activity generated by Dr. Phillips Center’s operations, performances, visitors and related spending throughout the region.
 
“For more than a decade, we’ve seen firsthand how the arts inspire people, bring communities together and create lasting value,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. “This study confirms that our impact reaches far beyond our stages—supporting thousands of jobs, driving business growth, attracting visitors from around the world and helping position Central Florida as a more vibrant, competitive and connected region.”
 
Today, Dr. Phillips Center welcomes more than 910,000 guests annually, attracting visitors from all 50 states and more than 80 countries while presenting programming 99% of the year across venues that consistently operate between 82% and 97% capacity. Since opening in 2014, the arts center has welcomed more than 6.2 million guests to more than 6,200 performances and events, helping make downtown Orlando a premier destination for arts, culture and entertainment.
 
Key Findings from the Tourism Economics Analysis:
 
  • $227.6 million in annual economic impact (output)
  • 2,483 jobs supported across Central Florida
  • $70.8 million in total labor income in Orange County
  • $13.2 million generated in state and local tax revenue
  • $73.1 million in offsite spending in the local economy by event attendees, cast and crew
  • 61,600 hotel room nights generated 

Dr. Phillips Center by the Numbers:

  • 910,000+ annual guests
  • Visitors from all 50 states and more than 80 countries
  • 6.2+ million guests welcomed since opening
  • 6,200+ performances and events presented
  • 935,920 students and community participants served
  • 202 regional arts organizations supported and hosted in current venues
  • 24,085 donors who have invested in the arts center’s mission
  • $256 million contributed since inception through philanthropy 

Beyond its economic contributions, Dr. Phillips Center continues to expand access to arts education, arts & wellness programs, community engagement initiatives and world-class performances while serving as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Through partnerships with schools, local arts organizations, community groups, and touring productions, the arts center continues to create opportunities that strengthen both the region’s cultural landscape and its economy.

Eleven years after opening, Dr. Phillips Center remains one of the world’s busiest performing arts destinations. Its impact demonstrates how investment in arts and culture generates measurable returns through tourism, employment, education, and community engagement while enriching the quality of life throughout Central Florida.

To learn more about our current economic impact visit drphillipscenter.org. 

June 2, 2026

Madison, Wis. (June 2, 2026) — An economic and fiscal impact analysis by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Fiscal and Economic Research Center reports Overture Center for the Arts will contribute $66.9 million to the Madison economy this 2025/26 season, a 94 percent increase from the 2021/22 season, the first after the pandemic, which contributed $34.48 million.  
 
Overture Center draws more than 500,000 guests annually, up from 234,475 guests—a 124% increase, and supports over 400 local jobs, up from 270. Of these jobs, 260 were in the entertainment and restaurant sectors. Furthermore, the center creates $3.59 million in state and county tax revenue, a 56 percent increase from the 2021/22 season. This report exemplifies how investment in the arts strengthens workforce attraction, downtown vitality, tourism activity, education access and community connection.  
 
According to Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, “Overture Center for the Arts is a defining centerpiece of downtown Madison’s vibrant and eclectic culture. By connecting audiences to global experiences while holding space for homegrown artists, Overture enriches our community and enhances Madison’s reputation as a desirable place to live. Overture’s diverse programming serves as a powerful economic driver for our entire regional economy. It’s an important and unique destination for Madison residents, as well as our many visitors.” 
 
Driving downtown business 
 
Of the $66.9 million, $18.9 million is spent at local restaurants, retail shops and hospitality businesses. Arts activity fuels foot traffic across the entire downtown district. When audiences attend overture performances, they dine downtown, shop locally, stay overnight, park nearby and explore neighborhoods.  
 
“Overture Center is one of the key anchors of Downtown Madison’s vibrancy and appeal, drawing residents, workers and visitors together through arts, culture and community,” said Jason Ilstrup, President, Downtown Madison Inc. “Its performances, events and everyday activity generate massive economic strength for downtown businesses while helping make Madison a more dynamic and welcoming place to live, work and visit.” 
 
Drawing regional visitors to Madison 
 
Overture creates $14 million in total visitor impact. National touring Broadway productions, internationally recognized artists and nine resident arts organizations create a year-round arts hub and make Overture one of the Midwest’s most attractive cultural destinations.  
 
  • $2.59 from Broadway shows 
  • $4.2 million from Overture Presents shows 
  • $7.4 million from Resident Companies  
“Overture Center is a community treasure that provides visitors locally produced, nationally renowned and internationally flavored arts and culture, making a trip to Madison memorable and meaningful,” said Ellie Westman Chin, President & CEO, Destination Madison.    
 
Investing in families, students and community access 
 
Overture’s Education and Engagement programs created $4.7 million in impact.  
 
Of its more than half million annual artistic experiences, nearly 40 percent are provided through free and low-cost programs. These education and engagement programs connect families, students and communities to the arts year-round and support lifelong engagement.  
 
Research partnership 
 
Overture Center partnered with UW-Whitewater’s Fiscal and Economic Research Center to analyze and quantify its annual economic impact. The factors analyzed include, but are not limited to, the duration of stay, related activities before/after a show and size of the group. Surveys were collected and used to quantify the monetary impact on local and Wisconsin economies.  
 
They used IMPLAN (Impact Analysis for Planning) methodology, an economic analysis software system that uses survey data to estimate what extent different spending categories affect the local economy through direct effects (initial impact created by spending by/at businesses around Overture), indirect effects (secondary impact caused by changing input needs of directly affected industries) and induced effects (changes in household spending due to additional employment generated by direct and indirect effects). 
 
OVERTURE CENTER FOR THE ARTS in Madison, Wis. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization that features seven state-of-the-art performance spaces and five galleries where national and international touring artists, nine resident companies and hundreds of local artists engage people in more than 500,000 educational and artistic experiences each year. Nearly 40 percent of these experiences are through our free or low-cost education and engagement programs. Overture’s mission is to support and elevate our community’s creative culture, economy and quality of life through the arts. overture.org

June 2, 2026

Madison, Wis. (June 2, 2026) — An economic and fiscal impact analysis by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Fiscal and Economic Research Center reports Overture Center for the Arts will contribute $66.9 million to the Madison economy this 2025/26 season, a 94 percent increase from the 2021/22 season, the first after the pandemic, which contributed $34.48 million.  
 
Overture Center draws more than 500,000 guests annually, up from 234,475 guests—a 124% increase, and supports over 400 local jobs, up from 270. Of these jobs, 260 were in the entertainment and restaurant sectors. Furthermore, the center creates $3.59 million in state and county tax revenue, a 56 percent increase from the 2021/22 season. This report exemplifies how investment in the arts strengthens workforce attraction, downtown vitality, tourism activity, education access and community connection.  
 
According to Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, “Overture Center for the Arts is a defining centerpiece of downtown Madison’s vibrant and eclectic culture. By connecting audiences to global experiences while holding space for homegrown artists, Overture enriches our community and enhances Madison’s reputation as a desirable place to live. Overture’s diverse programming serves as a powerful economic driver for our entire regional economy. It’s an important and unique destination for Madison residents, as well as our many visitors.” 
 
Driving downtown business 
 
Of the $66.9 million, $18.9 million is spent at local restaurants, retail shops and hospitality businesses. Arts activity fuels foot traffic across the entire downtown district. When audiences attend overture performances, they dine downtown, shop locally, stay overnight, park nearby and explore neighborhoods.  
 
“Overture Center is one of the key anchors of Downtown Madison’s vibrancy and appeal, drawing residents, workers and visitors together through arts, culture and community,” said Jason Ilstrup, President, Downtown Madison Inc. “Its performances, events and everyday activity generate massive economic strength for downtown businesses while helping make Madison a more dynamic and welcoming place to live, work and visit.” 
 
Drawing regional visitors to Madison 
 
Overture creates $14 million in total visitor impact. National touring Broadway productions, internationally recognized artists and nine resident arts organizations create a year-round arts hub and make Overture one of the Midwest’s most attractive cultural destinations.  
 
  • $2.59 from Broadway shows 
  • $4.2 million from Overture Presents shows 
  • $7.4 million from Resident Companies  
“Overture Center is a community treasure that provides visitors locally produced, nationally renowned and internationally flavored arts and culture, making a trip to Madison memorable and meaningful,” said Ellie Westman Chin, President & CEO, Destination Madison.    
 
Investing in families, students and community access 
 
Overture’s Education and Engagement programs created $4.7 million in impact.  
 
Of its more than half million annual artistic experiences, nearly 40 percent are provided through free and low-cost programs. These education and engagement programs connect families, students and communities to the arts year-round and support lifelong engagement.  
 
Research partnership 
 
Overture Center partnered with UW-Whitewater’s Fiscal and Economic Research Center to analyze and quantify its annual economic impact. The factors analyzed include, but are not limited to, the duration of stay, related activities before/after a show and size of the group. Surveys were collected and used to quantify the monetary impact on local and Wisconsin economies.  
 
They used IMPLAN (Impact Analysis for Planning) methodology, an economic analysis software system that uses survey data to estimate what extent different spending categories affect the local economy through direct effects (initial impact created by spending by/at businesses around Overture), indirect effects (secondary impact caused by changing input needs of directly affected industries) and induced effects (changes in household spending due to additional employment generated by direct and indirect effects). 
 
OVERTURE CENTER FOR THE ARTS in Madison, Wis. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization that features seven state-of-the-art performance spaces and five galleries where national and international touring artists, nine resident companies and hundreds of local artists engage people in more than 500,000 educational and artistic experiences each year. Nearly 40 percent of these experiences are through our free or low-cost education and engagement programs. Overture’s mission is to support and elevate our community’s creative culture, economy and quality of life through the arts. overture.org

June 1, 2026

Cincinnati, OH  — On April 7, 2026 the Broadway League released the Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report. According to this report, Touring Broadway generates substantial direct spending from producers, presenters, and venues, while also drawing audiences into downtown areas where they support local businesses. This activity creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy, as dollars spent in connection with Broadway performances continue to circulate across industries and extend into surrounding communities.

Based on data from the report, the Broadway touring shows that visit the Aronoff Center with the First Financial Bank Broadway in Cincinnati series, presented by TriHealth, has contributed more than $213 million in economic activity during the past 24 months in the Greater Cincinnati area, reflecting both direct expenditures related to presenting Broadway shows and additional spending by theatergoers. Across the country, audiences contribute more than $1.34 billion annually to local economies through dining, transportation, employment, shopping, and lodging tied to their theater experience. This combined spending highlights Broadway’s role in supporting local businesses and jobs while driving economic activity beyond the stage.

Based on this study, Disney’s THE LION KING will bring in more than $30 million of economic activity during its four-week run in Cincinnati. HAMILTON‘s 3-week run in December 2025 made up $32 million of that $213 million of impact for the local economy.

“Our Broadway series is more than world-class entertainment—it’s a powerful economic engine for Cincinnati and the surrounding region,” said Genevieve Holt, Vice President Midwest for Broadway Across America (BAA).  “Each production drives meaningful impact for local businesses, from restaurants and hotels to small retailers, while bringing vibrancy and energy to the community. We’re proud to play a role in strengthening the local economy while connecting audiences through the magic of live theater.”

“We are proud to partner with Broadway in Cincinnati to present productions of this scale that bring tens of thousands of visitors downtown, said Steve Loftin, President & CEO of Cincinnati Arts Association (CAA). “In addition to providing the world-class performance home for extended Broadway engagements such as Disney’s THE LION KING, the Aronoff Center provides significant salaries and wages stimulating local spending. With labor accounting for as much as 32% of a show’s total local expenses, the economic impact generated is meaningful and measurable for downtown businesses and our region and serves as a powerful economic engine for Cincinnati.”

One of Broadway in Cincinnati and the Aronoff Center’s longtime neighbors has been Nicholson’s Pub, a Walnut Street mainstay since 1997.  “Nicholson’s has been a part of the Theater District from the very beginning, and we are honored to be a preferred destination for a pre-show meal,” said Nick Sanders, CEO of Tavern Restaurant Group.  “Every show presents an opportunity for us to connect with the Broadway in Cincinnati audience with special themed features, exceptional hospitality, comfort, and convenience. The loyal patronage and support from the Aronoff community for thirty years has been an essential part of our success.”

Broadway Across America is proud to highlight the significant economic impact of Touring Broadway in Cincinnati, where live theater continues to serve as both a cultural cornerstone and a powerful economic engine for the region.

Broadway Across America, which embraces the philosophy that live theater has the power to change the world, has invested significantly in Cincinnati youth in recent years as well.  In the 26/27 season so far, the company has deeply subsidized tickets for more than 3,000 local students through the Janet Taylor Memorial Education Fund. BAA, along with CAA, has also developed a comprehensive education program with the School for the Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA) called Broadway Beyond the Classroom. This program provides training and master classes from Broadway touring cast and crew to the talented Cincinnati-area students studying the arts at SCPA.

May 18, 2026 – The producers of The Outsiders, the 2024 Tony Award® -winning Best Musical, are proud to announce that the North American Tour has officially recouped its capitalization of $11,000,000 after just 29 weeks on the road. The touring production has been seen by more than 548,915 patrons in 23 cities across North America since launching on September 17, 2025, at Shea’s Buffalo Theatre in Buffalo, NY, consistently delivering standout box office performances and receiving critical acclaim. The Chicago Sun Times calls it “thrilling… powerful… and unforgettable,” while The Austin Chronicle proclaims, “The Outsiders is a love letter to theatrical possibilities.”

Tour dates are now announced through December 2027, including the show’s highly anticipated Canadian premiere in Toronto this summer. The full route can be found at OutsidersMusical.com.

Beyond its commercial success, the production has made a meaningful local impact through The Stay Gold Project, a nationwide audience engagement and access initiative designed to connect young people and communities to the story of The Outsiders. In partnership with the SONIC® Foundation and private donors, the program has expanded from Broadway to cities across the country, providing approximately 4,000 subsidized tickets to students, educators, and community groups, while also supporting post-show discussions, educational resources, and local outreach events.

Through this collaboration, Stay Gold has not only deepened audience connection to the material but also introduced a new generation to live theater—reinforcing the production’s commitment to accessibility, social impact, and meaningful community engagement at every stop on the road.

“Bringing The Outsiders to audiences across North America has been an incredibly meaningful journey for everyone involved,” said producers Matthew Rego, Michael Rego, and Hank Unger of The Araca Group. “We’re deeply proud of the show’s success on the road and immensely grateful to the millions of theatergoers who have embraced it with such passion. What’s been most inspiring is seeing the powerful connection people of all ages are having with this story—night after night, in cities coast to coast they are experiencing The Outsiders with their families, friends, parents and grandparents. Knowing the broad impact The Outsiders is having across generations makes this milestone all the more rewarding.”

The Outsiders features Scenography by Tony Award nominees AMP featuring Tatiana Kahvegian, Costume Design by Sarafina Bush, Lighting Design by Tony Award winner Brian MacDevitt, Sound Design by Tony Award winner Cody Spencer, Projection Design by Tony Award winner Hana S. Kim, Special Effects Design by Jeremy Chernick & Lillis Meeh, Hair & Wig Design by Alberto “Albee” Alvarado, Makeup Design by Tishonna Ferguson, Sound Effects Specialist Taylor Bense, Creative Consultant Jack Viertel, Speech Text & Dialect Coach Gigi Buffington, Music Supervision & Additional Orchestrations by Tony Award nominee Matt Hinkley, Music Direction by Remy Kurs, Production Supervision by Beverly Jenkins, Production Stage Management by Edmond O’Neal. Casting is by The TRC Company/Xavier Rubiano, CSA.

The Outsiders is produced on tour by The Araca Group, American Zoetrope, Olympus Theatricals, Sue Gilad & Larry Rogowsky, Angelina Jolie, and is co-produced by Betsy Dollinger, Jonathan & Michelle Clay, Cristina Marie Vivenzio, The Shubert Organization, LaChanze & Marylee Fairbanks, Debra Martin Chase, Sony Music Masterworks, Jamestown Revival Theater, Jennifer & Jonathan Allan Soros, Tanninger Entertainment, Tamlyn Brooke Shusterman, Mistry Theatrical Ventures, Galt & Irvin Productions, Tulsa Clarks, Paul & Margaret Liljenquist, Bob & Claire Patterson, Voltron Global Media, James L. Nederlander, Warner Bros. Theatre Ventures, The John Gore Organization, Independent Presenters Network, Stephen Lindsay & Brett Sirota, Jeffrey Finn, Playhouse Square, ASR Productions, Indelible InK, Lionheart Productions, The Broadway Investor’s Club, Starhawk Productions, Distant Rumble, GTR Productions, Green Leaf Partnership, Michael & Elizabeth Venuti, Leslie Kavanaugh, Deborah & Dave Smith, Belle Productions, Chas & Jen Grossman, Rungnapa & Jim Teague, Michael & Molly Schroeder, Casey & Chelsea Baugh, Jim & Emily Flautt, Jon L. Morris, Becky Winkler, William Moran Hickey Jr. & William Moran Hickey III, Melissa Chamberlain & Michael McCartney, Wavelength Productions, Rob O’Neill & Shane Snow, Eric Stine, Rachel Weinstein, Cornice Productions and La Jolla Playhouse.

May 1, 2026 – The producers of SUFFS are thrilled to announce that the North American Tour has recouped just 28 playing weeks into its triumphant march across North America.

The acclaimed Tony Award®-winning musical about the passionate American women who fought tirelessly for the right to vote has been seen by more than 375,000 patrons since its launch on September 19, 2025, at the 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle. The tour is booked through August of 2026 with upcoming engagements in Washington, D.C., Chicago, Memphis, and Fort Worth. For the full route and casting information, please visit suffsmusical.com.

“SUFFS reminds us that democracy is not a finished work — it is something each generation must fight to expand, protect, and carry forward,” said lead producers Jill Furman and Rachel Sussman. “As the show says, ‘the young are at the gates,’ and it has been profoundly moving to see audiences across the country respond to that call. This milestone belongs to the extraordinary community of artists, creatives, crew members, partners, investors, and supporters whose belief, flexibility, and commitment helped bring this story to the road and ensure it could be seen by audiences nationwide.”

The milestone comes as SUFFS enters an exciting new chapter, continuing to reach audiences on the road and soon on screens nationwide. This upcoming Monday, May 4 at 7:00 PM, the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical SUFFS, Town Hall, and The Public Theater will partner to present “A Special Screening of Great Performances: SUFFS” at Town Hall, ahead of the national PBS premiere on Friday, May 8 at 9:00 PM ET. The evening will feature a post-screening conversation moderated by Grammy Award-winning actress Phillipa Soo with Tony Award winner Shaina Taub, Tony Award-nominated director Leigh Silverman, and Tony Award winner Nikki M. James, followed by a live piano performance of “Keep Marching” by members of the original Broadway cast. Tickets start at $44 and can be purchased here.

Created by Shaina Taub, the first woman to ever independently win Tony Awards for Best Book and Best Score in the same season, this “thrilling, inspiring and dazzlingly entertaining” (Variety) new musical boldly explores the triumphs and failures of a struggle for equality that’s far from over. It’s a given that the women of the suffragist movement—who called themselves “Suffs” for short—were brilliant, but as they fought tirelessly for the right to vote, they were also flawed, stubborn, passionate and funny. SUFFS tells their story: the remarkable friendships, the heartbreak, and how this movement brought them together—or, in some cases, tore them apart.

SUFFS is winner of the Outer Critics’ Circle Award for Best New Musical, two Drama Desk Awards including Best Score, and is “unquestionably the most emotionally stirring musical of the season” (Chicago Tribune). The successful Broadway production played a 10-month run at the Music Box Theatre from April 18, 2024, through January 5, 2025.

SUFFS features book, music and lyrics by Tony Award®-winner Shaina Taub, direction by Tony Award-nominee Leigh Silverman (Violet, Yellow Face), choreography by Mayte Natalio (How to Dance in Ohio), music supervision by Andrea Grody, scenic design by Christine Peters, original Broadway scenic design by Tony Award-nominee Riccardo Hernández (Jagged Little Pill), costume design by Oscar and Tony Award-winner Paul Tazewell (Hamilton, Death Becomes Her), lighting design by Tony Award-nominee Lap Chi Chu (Camelot), hair and wig design by award-winning Charles G. Lapointe, makeup design by Joe Dulude II, sound design by Jason Crystal (Sweeney Todd) with associate Sun Hee Kil (Choir Boy), orchestrations by Tony Award-winner Michael Starobin (Next to Normal), vocal arrangements by Shaina Taub and Andrea Grody (The Band’s Visit), incidental music arrangements by Shaina Taub, Andrea Grody, and Michael Starobin, associate direction by Lori Elizabeth Parquet, associate choreography by Hawley Gould, and general management by 101 Productions, Ltd.

Jill Furman and Rachel Sussman serve as lead producers of SUFFS. Co-producers for the North American tour of SUFFS currently include Roy Furman; Cue to Cue Productions; Renee Ring & Paul Zofnass; Walport Productions; No Guarantees Productions; Ruth Ann Harnisch; The Broadway Investor’s Club; Erica Lynn Schwartz; Sally Martin; Peter May; The Bhatia Sisters; David Carroll; Julie E. Cohen; The Garelicks; John Gore Organization; Judith Teal Davis & Joe Carroll; Laura Lonergan; Mayer Productions; MML Productions; Nederlander Presentations; Morgan Steward; Jennifer Friedland; Xan Weiser; Matters of the Art; Jeffrey Shoenberg; Ari Conte; Brian Spector; Silly Bears Productions; Theatre Producers of Color; Level Forward; Above the Fray Entertainment; Debbie and Stephen Block; Alissandra Aronow; Vibecke Dahle Dellapolla; Funroe Productions; Jennifer Kroman; Michelle Noh; Todd B. Rubin; Stanley S. Shuman; Six Point Productions; Second Set; and The Shubert Organization.

The national tour is booked by The Booking Group with casting by The Telsey Office: Rachel Hoffman, CSA. Stacy N. Taylor serves as the Production Stage Manager, Maya Bhatnagar is the Stage Manager, Megan Ciszek is the Assistant Stage Manager, and Hilary Hamilton is the Company Manager.

On April 7, 2026, the Broadway League released the Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report.  According to the report, Touring Broadway generates substantial direct spending from producers, presenters and venues while also drawing audiences into downtown areas where they support local businesses. This activity creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy, as dollars spent in connection with Broadway performances continue to circulate across industries and extend into surrounding communities.

Broadway Across America highlights the significant economic impact of AdventHealth Broadway in Orlando at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where live theater continues to serve as both a cultural cornerstone and a powerful economic engine for the region. 

In Orlando, Touring Broadway has contributed approximately $129 million in economic activity, reflecting both direct expenditures related to presenting Broadway shows and additional spending by theatergoers at Dr. Phillips Center. Across the country, Touring Broadway audiences contribute more than $1.34 billion annually to local economies through dining, transportation, shopping and lodging tied to their theater experience. This combined spending highlights Broadway’s role in supporting local businesses and jobs while driving economic activity beyond the stage.

“Every season, we see more people discovering what live Broadway can do for them — the joy, the shared experience, the reason to gather downtown,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO at Dr. Phillips Center. “We love seeing our community fill the streets, visit local restaurants and be moved by the arts as we grow the impact of Broadway in Orlando.” 

Since opening in 2014, the arts center has become one of the top Broadway markets in the country, welcoming more than 1 million guests and doubling the number of subscribers over the past ten seasons.

Grand Rapids, April 28, 2026 – Disney’s The Lion King and Broadway Grand Rapids are celebrating the conclusion of an extraordinary three-week engagement that ended Sunday, April 26. The production played 24 performances at DeVos Performance Hall, grossing more than $4 million at the box office and entertaining more than 48,000 theatergoers from across Michigan.
 
It is estimated that the Grand Rapids engagement of The Lion King generated more than $16,268,687* in economic impact for the city, driven by spending on hotels, restaurants, transportation, parking, and other local businesses by both theatergoers and production staff. This estimate is based on a Broadway League report, which found that Broadway tours in similarly sized markets generate an economic impact averaging 4.00 times gross ticket sales.
 
“Patrons came by the busload, downtown was alive with visitors, local businesses were busy, and audiences of all ages experienced Broadway at its very best here in Grand Rapids,” said Meghan Distel, President and CEO of Broadway Grand Rapids. “We’re proud to help make moments like this happen for West Michigan. It drives meaningful economic activity and underscores the powerful role the arts play in cultural connection and community vitality.”

(New York, NY) – April 23, 2026 – The Producers announced today that the National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO — winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL — will be making its final stop of the tour in New Haven, CT. The production will play May 14–17 at the Shubert Theatre before the curtain comes down on the national tour for good. This is audiences’ last chance to join Kimberly on one last great adventure. Tickets are available at www.shubert.com.

By the time KIMBERLY AKIMBO ends its beloved run, the National Tour will have played 79 weeks across 61 cities. Both the Broadway production and the National Tour have now recouped their investments — with the enormous success of the National Tour allowing the Broadway production to return the remainder of its capitalization.

Kimberly is about to turn 16 and recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. In this “howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show” (The New Yorker), Kim is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush…and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.

Named BEST MUSICAL by the Tony Awards, New York Drama Critics Circle, The Drama Desk Awards, The Lucille Lortel Awards, and The Outer Critics Circle Awards, KIMBERLY AKIMBO is also the winner of 4 additional Tony Awards: Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical (Victoria Clark), Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical (Bonnie Milligan), Best Score (David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori), and Best Book (David Lindsay-Abaire). With her win for KIMBERLY AKIMBO, Jeanine Tesori made history as the first female composer to win two Tony Awards for Best Score.

KIMBERLY AKIMBO features scenic design by David Zinn, costume design by Sarah Laux, lighting design by Jeanette Oi-Suk Yew, sound design by Kai Harada, projection design by Lucy MacKinnon, and wig, hair, and make-up design by J. Jared Janas. The production’s Music Supervisor is Chris Fenwick and the Music Director is Ryan Edward Wise. KIMBERLY AKIMBO features orchestrations by Tony Award nominee John Clancy, with additional orchestrations by Macy Schmidt. The Production Supervisor is Arabella Powell, the Production Stage Manager is Shawn Pennington and casting is by The Telsey Office, Craig Burns, CSA.

The National Tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO is produced by David Stone, The Atlantic Theater Company, James L. Nederlander, LaChanze, John Gore, Patrick Catullo, and Aaron Glick.

Austin, April 22, 2026 – Texas Performing Arts and Broadway Across America announce that Broadway in Austin generated approximately $40.2 million in economic activity during the 2023–2024 season. That figure is part of $5.7 billion in nationwide economic impact from touring Broadway productions, according to the Broadway League’s Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report released earlier this month.

In Austin, Broadway shows draw audiences to Bass Concert Hall and the surrounding area, where theatergoers support local restaurants, hotels and retail businesses before and after performances. That $40.2 million in economic activity reflects both direct expenditures by producers and the presenter to stage the shows and the additional spending audiences bring to the city.
 
The Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report highlights how that pattern plays out on a national scale, with dollars spent in connection with Broadway performances continuing to circulate across industries and into surrounding communities — driving billions in economic activity well beyond the theater itself.
 
“The arts deliver immeasurable human value while also creating very tangible economic benefit to communities that support it,” said Bob Bursey, Executive and Artistic Director of Texas Performing Arts. “When a Broadway show comes to Austin, it’s not just a night at the theater — it’s dinner out, a hotel stay for a family driving in from out of town, and an experience that keeps people coming back regularly to support businesses.”
 
Of the $5.7 billion in nationwide economic impact, more than $1.34 billion comes directly from audiences spending on dining, transportation, shopping, and lodging tied to their theater experience. The remainder reflects direct expenditures by producers, presenters, and venues to bring productions to stages across the country, underscoring the full scope of touring Broadway’s role in supporting local businesses and jobs well beyond the stage.

Houston, April 21, 2026 – The Broadway League reports that touring Broadway productions generated $5.7 billion in economic impact nationwide, according to its Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report released earlier this month.

The report highlights how touring Broadway productions generate substantial direct spending by producers, presenters and venues, while drawing audiences into downtown districts where they support local restaurants, hotels and retail businesses. This activity creates a ripple effect across local economies, with dollars spent in connection with touring Broadway performances continuing to circulate across industries and extending into surrounding communities.

In Houston, Broadway at the Hobby Center and Broadway Across America contribute to significant economic impact, where live theater serves as both a cultural cornerstone and a driver of regional economic activity, generating approximately $61.6 million during the 2023–2024 season. This figure reflects direct expenditures associated with presenting touring Broadway productions, as well as additional spending by audiences supporting local businesses.

“Broadway’s impact goes far beyond the stage,” said Mark Folkes, president and CEO of the Hobby Center. “It drives economic activity, supports local businesses and brings people into the heart of the city. Just as importantly, the arts help define who we are, shaping Houston’s identity as a place where culture, creativity and community come together. At the Hobby Center, we see that impact every day, as audiences connect not only with performances, but with each other.”

Across the country, audiences contribute more than $1.34 billion annually to local economies through dining, transportation, shopping and lodging tied to their theater experience. This combined spending highlights the role of touring Broadway productions in supporting local businesses and jobs while driving economic activity.

BALTIMORE, Md. (April 16, 2026) – Maryland has extended its Theatrical Production Tax Credit Program through June 30, 2032, reinforcing the state’s commitment to growing its arts economy and attracting major national touring and pre-Broadway productions. Approved through SB0440 and HB0472, the extension builds on the program’s success since launching in 2022 and provides long-term stability for theatrical producers evaluating where to launch and develop new work.

The program provides a 25% refundable tax credit on qualified in-state theatrical production expenses, up to $2 million per production, supporting costs such as set design, lighting, wardrobe, lodging and other essential components of bringing large-scale productions to life. By offsetting these costs, Maryland has strengthened its position as a competitive hub for productions preparing to tour nationally or premiere on Broadway.

“This extension is a powerful investment in Maryland’s arts and culture community,” said Ron Legler, president of the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, a Broadway Across America venue. “This is more than just policy it’s a commitment to keeping our stage lights bright and our venues filled with world-class talent.”

To date, as a direct result of the Theatrical Production Tax Credit Program, Maryland has successfully launched major theatrical productions presented by Broadway Across America including The Wiz, Life of Pi, & Juliet, Water for Elephants, The Phantom of the Opera and The Great Gatsby. Looking ahead, the 2026/2027 Hippodrome Broadway Series includes three scheduled launches: Maybe Happy Ending, Heathers and SIX.

Touring Broadway: A Proven Economic Engine

New national data underscores the broader value of touring Broadway in communities across the country and the importance of programs like Maryland’s tax credit.

According to The Broadway League’s Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023-2024 report, touring Broadway generated $5.7 billion in total economic impact across the United States, with approximately 91% of that impact benefiting local communities where productions were presented.

On average, every dollar spent on Broadway ticket sales generates more than four times that amount in local economic activity, highlighting the significant return these productions bring to host cities.

Local Impact in Baltimore:

In Baltimore, Broadway Across America (BAA) productions generated approximately $40.2 million in economic activity in 2023 and 2024 alone, reflecting both direct expenditures related to presenting Broadway shows and additional spending by theatergoers.

Audiences contribute significant dollars to local economies through dining, transportation, shopping and lodging tied to their theater experience. France-Merrick Performing Arts Center patrons contributed more than $17.8 million in similar spending, underscoring the venue’s role in supporting local businesses, sustaining jobs and driving economic activity beyond the stage.

More broadly, total operations at the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, which includes the Hippodrome Theatre and the M&T Bank Exchange, supported 244 jobs and $14.4 million in labor income statewide in FY2024, while also generating $2.8 million in tax revenue, of which an estimated $2.2 million occurred at the State level.

Maryland’s investment in the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center generated an estimated 8.4-to-1 ratio of fiscal benefits to costs for the State in FY2024, reinforcing the value of programs like the Theatrical Production Tax Credit in driving long-term economic growth.

“The impact of these productions extends far beyond the stage,” said Legler. “By collaborating with our local leaders on the tax credit program, we’re ensuring Baltimore remains a critical stop in the national Broadway pipeline.”

April 15, 2026

Salt Lake City, UT — If downtown Salt Lake City seemed a little more active the past week, part of that is because of the new Cameron Macintosh production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA that has been playing to capacity houses at Eccles Theater since opening on Wednesday, April 8. Based on data from The Broadway League, Touring Broadway has contributed more than $307 million in economic activity during the past 24 months in the Salt Lake City metro, reflecting both direct expenditures related to presenting Broadway shows and additional spending by theatergoers. Across the country, audiences contribute more than $1.34 billion annually to local economies through dining, transportation, employment, shopping, and lodging tied to their theater experience. This combined spending highlights Broadway’s role in supporting local businesses and jobs while driving economic activity beyond the stage.

On April 7, 2026, The Broadway League released the Economic Impact of Touring Broadway 2023–2024 report.  According to the report, Touring Broadway generates substantial direct spending from producers, presenters, and venues, while also drawing audiences into downtown areas where they support local businesses. This activity creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy, as dollars spent in connection with Broadway performances continue to circulate across industries and extend into surrounding communities. Based on this study, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will bring in more than $36.5 million of economic activity during its three-week run in Salt Lake City. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA’s 3-week run along with 6-weeks of WICKED, 5-weeks of HAMILTON and 3-weeks of LES MISÉRABLES make up $187 million of that $307 million of impact for the local economy.

Broadway Across America is proud to highlight the significant economic impact of Touring Broadway in Salt Lake City, where live theater continues to serve as both a cultural cornerstone and a powerful economic engine for the region.

“We love seeing members of our community fill the downtown area, visit local shops and restaurants, engage with their community, be moved by the incredible shows they see on stage, and contribute to the local economy,” said Victor Hamburger, Vice President of the Mountain Region for Broadway Across America. “Broadway’s value benefits the local area tenfold—it’s not only inspiring and entertaining for audiences but with education programs, masterclasses and technical workshops, we are able to cultivate the artists, technicians and performers of tomorrow. Then when you look at Broadway as a catalyst for economic growth and community connection, what Touring Broadway offers is pretty unique.”

Broadway Across America has invested significantly in Salt Lake City in recent years developing comprehensive education programs with local schools and training programs with I.A.T.S.E. Local 99. Broadway at the Eccles, which is co-presented with Salt Lake County Arts and Culture, also developed their first festival this past November in collaboration with Salt Lake County Arts and Culture with the Voices of Women Festival that took place during the touring Broadway engagement of SUFFS and highlighted Utah’s Women’s Suffrage story as well as highlighting Utah Women’s Organizations.