Industry Pro Newsletter: Concord Acquires Broadway Licensing Group, Portland Center Stage Faces Inflection Point
Additionally, we’ve got updates on all the major awards and honorees in New York Theater, as well as some updated numbers on NYC tourism and its impact on Broadway
By: Alex Freeman May. 12, 2025
This week's newsletter navigates a dynamic and somewhat contradictory landscape within the theater world, showcasing both significant achievement and contractions. From Concord's major acquisition poised to reshape theatrical licensing to the precarious financial situation facing a vital Portland theater and the broader uncertainties tied to declining tourism in New York, we see an industry simultaneously evolving and facing considerable headwinds. Amidst these shifts, artistic excellence continues to shine, celebrated in the Pulitzer Prize for Drama awarded to Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' PURPOSE and the numerous accolades bestowed by the New York Drama Critics' Circle and the Chita Rivera and Off-Broadway Alliance Awards, reminding us of the enduring power and impact of live performance.
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Employment Opportunity
Managing Director - Profile Theatre Company
Profile Theatre, one of Portland’s most acclaimed cultural institutions, seeks a collaborative, entrepreneurial, and inclusive leader to serve as its Managing Director, co-leading the organization alongside the Artistic Director. One of only two theaters in the nation that highlights the work of contemporary playwrights in deep-dive, multi-year, multi-production collaborations, Profile is at a pivotal moment in its journey — building a sustainable future that honors its distinctive artistic voice and strong commitment to community.
Industry Trends
Concord Acquires Broadway Licensing Global and Imprints
Concord has acquired Broadway Licensing Global and its imprints. This acquisition signals a significant consolidation within the theater industry. The move is poised to reshape the landscape of theatrical licensing.
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' PURPOSE Wins 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' play, PURPOSE, has been honored with the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, acknowledging its intricate exploration of family dynamics. The work delves into themes of ambition and morality within a complex family structure.
National Endowment for the Arts Officials Resign Amid Trump Grant Withdrawals
Amidst the Trump administration's decision to withdraw previously approved grants, several officials at the National Endowment for the Arts have resigned from their positions. These departures signal a period of disruption within the organization, reflecting a notable shift in the administration's approach to arts funding policy.
Broadway/New York
MAYBE HAPPY ENDING and PURPOSE Take Top Prizes At New York Drama Critics' Circle Awards
The New York Drama Critics' Circle Awards celebrated outstanding theatrical achievement by bestowing its top prizes upon MAYBE HAPPY ENDING and PURPOSE. These awards are among the most respected in the industry, and the Circle itself holds a place of high esteem for its critical perspective.
Photos: Jonathan Groff, Jasmine Amy Rogers, And More Are 2025 Chita Rivera AWARDS Nominees
The nominees for the 2025 Chita Rivera Awards, which celebrate excellence in dance and choreography, have been announced. Among those recognized are Jonathan Groff, Jasmine Amy Rogers, and other notable performers.
2025 Off-Broadway Alliance Awards Nominations
Nominations for the 2025 Off-Broadway Alliance Awards have been announced, honoring the best of Off-Broadway productions. The Alliance plays a vital role in recognizing the contributions of smaller theaters, and this year's nominations highlight the diversity and quality of their work.
Broadway League Launches East to Broadway to Celebrate and Engage AANHPI Communities
The Broadway League has launched "East to Broadway," an initiative aimed at celebrating and engaging Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. This effort reflects a commitment to fostering greater diversity and inclusion on Broadway. The initiative seeks to strengthen ties between Broadway and AANHPI audiences.
New York Extends and Expands Broadway Tax Credit Through 2027 Amid Federal Arts Cuts
New York State has extended and expanded its Broadway tax credit program through 2027. This extension aims to support Broadway's continued vitality amidst ongoing federal arts funding reductions. The tax credit program serves as a crucial incentive for theatrical productions in New York City.
Broadway Faces Uncertainty as NYC Tourism Declines Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Broadway is facing a period of uncertainty due to a decline in New York City tourism, a trend influenced by geopolitical tensions. The decrease in tourism poses challenges for the theater industry, which relies heavily on visitor revenue. This situation has created instability for Broadway productions and related businesses.
Regional
The Muny to Receive the 2025 Regional Theatre Tony Award
The Muny, a renowned outdoor musical theater in St. Louis, will receive the 2025 Regional Theatre Tony Award. This award celebrates The Muny's significant contributions to the field of American theater.
Trump Administration Proposes $257 Million Boost for Kennedy Center Renovations Amid Arts Cuts
Despite implementing broader cuts to arts funding, the Trump administration has proposed a substantial $257 million increase for renovations at the Kennedy Center. This funding is specifically allocated for building improvements at this major national cultural institution.
American Theatre: Summer Stock: A Vibe Check
American Theatre takes a look at the state of summer stock theater. The article provides an overview of the unique challenges and rewards of this theatrical tradition. It examines the cultural significance of summer stock.
A prominent Portland theater company faces imminent closure unless it can raise $2.5 million within three months. The company's future is in jeopardy, highlighting the financial pressures facing regional arts organizations. The article underscores the urgent need for funding to sustain this influential company.
International
The Old Vic Reveals New Chair, Simon Warshaw
The Old Vic has announced Simon Warshaw as its new Chair. A prominent figure in the arts and business sectors, Warshaw succeeds Nick Clarry in this role. Clarry has been on the board since 2012, and chair since 2014.
Missed our last few newsletters?
May 5, 2025 - Union Leader Condemns NEA Grant Terminations, The National Theatre Has a Global Vision
This week, we look at AFM Local 802's response to NEA grant terminations and the impressive $7 million milestone reached by the WICKED tour for Broadway Cares. Stateside, we spotlight the just-announced nominees for the Tony Awards and celebrate the winners of the Lucille Lortel Awards for Off-Broadway excellence. Our Broadway analysis delves into April's box office figures, while we also celebrate Audra McDonald becoming the most Tony-nominated performer in history. Regionally, we cover a leadership transition at Central Florida Community Arts, and internationally, we explore The National Theatre's ambitious global vision.
This week, we'll look at Colleen Dilenschneider's latest data on audience trust in a post-election environment and explore the immersive possibilities of the new StagePlay mixed-reality app for live performances. In New York, Broadway's Outer Critics Circle nominations and a special Tony Award for Harvey Fierstein, and the abrupt closure of Life and Trust. Finally, we'll take a look at key developments in regional and international theater, from Philadelphia's TKTS success to legal challenges in Texas and more programming changes at the Kennedy Center.
This week we look at potential shifts in arts funding on a national level, exciting leadership changes at Queens Theatre and Kansas City Rep, and a look at both the celebratory reopening of a beloved New York venue and the charitable spirit of the Broadway community. We also examine efforts towards accessibility in regional theatre and confront the challenges of rising costs impacting the UK theatre scene, alongside a rather unusual incident of theatrical theft in Scotland.
BroadwayWorld Resources
BroadwayWorld Stage Mag - A Fully Interactive Show Program
The digital solution to your show program needs - want to see what's possible? Check out the Stage Mag's for A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder and for The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!)! Then start building your own at stagemag.broadwayworld.com.
Add Your Show to our Regional Events Calendar
As audiences get set to return to in-person performances, and as your company works to market your own return to the stage, make sure you've got your upcoming shows in our regional events calendars. Listings are free of charge, with boosting options available. Get your show listed now
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