STG Announces Record Attendance Of More Than 1 Million

Seattle Theatre Group (STG) announces its highest-attended season to date with more than 1 million patrons attending more than 700 events during its 2017/2018 season - an increase in attendance of over 35% from STG's previous record (771,00 in 2015). Through this overwhelming support of its performances, programs, and special events, STG has also garnered a record single-season net surplus, which in turn will allow the organization to continue its mission to create enriching experiences in the arts, engage diverse communities, and steward historic theatres.

"By breaking attendance records across all three of STG's venues - The Paramount, Moore, and Neptune Theatres - our patrons have enabled us to significantly increase reserves and begin developing new methods of pursuing our vision as the people's theatre - where all are welcomed and represented," said STG Board President Masha Hart. "The support of our audience has allowed us to acknowledge this attendance milestone and honor our patrons by building upon our existing programming and establishing new initiatives to further audience and community engagement."

With more than 700 events, and over 260 education and community programs that impacted more than 55,000 people, STG's 2017/2018 season was also the organization's largest to date. Average attendance was high at all three venues, with The Paramount leading the way with an average attendance of 92% across all performances. It was led by a sold-out Broadway series (Hamilton) and the largest concert attendance on record, with more 500,000 in attendance. The economic impact of this record-setting number of events was not only felt by STG, but across the region as well. According to the Broadway League's economic impact formula, STG's 2017/2018 season provided more than a $250 million economic impact to the region.

This landmark season has allowed STG to further focus on its institutional values, such as service to the community and learning for all, by securing the future growth of existing educational programs such as STG AileyCamp and Disney Musicals in Schools, as well as launch new community programs such as STG in Hospitals, Broadway at Westlake, and STG Young Ambassadors.

In addition, STG's successful season will aid its stewardship of its three historic theatres by funding preservation projects such as the restoration of The Neptune Theatre's marquee, which is currently in process. "We are humbled by this strong support and believe it also reflects the value our region places on arts & culture" said STG's Executive Director, Josh LaBelle. "This support also allows us to explore some new directions that will focus on strengthening infrastructure for local artists and new programmatic projects."

SEATTLE THEATRE GROUP's (STG) mission is to make diverse performing arts and education an integral part of the region's cultural identity while keeping three historic venues, The Paramount, Moore and Neptune, alive and vibrant. STG presents a range of performances from Broadway, off-Broadway, dance and jazz, to comedy, concerts of all genres, speakers and family shows - at these three iconic theatres in Seattle and venues throughout the Puget Sound region and in Portland, Oregon.

For more information visit stgpresent.org. STG Education and Community Programs extend beyond the Paramount, Moore and Neptune Theatre stages and into the lives of the greater Seattle community. Each season, STG offers over 260 education programs impacting over 55,000 students and community members from diverse ages and backgrounds. These programs deepen significance to performances through opportunities to engage with artists, inspire youth and local artists through training and performance opportunities, and provide exposure to the arts through access initiatives.

For more information visit stgpresents.org/education.