Trinity’s Cancellation of In-Theater A Christmas Carol a Loss of Millions to Theater and Downtown
Friday, August 28, 2020
The decision by Trinity Rep to cancel this year’s in-theater performance of “A Christmas Carol” has major financial implications for the iconic repertory company as well as Providence businesses.
Trinity announced on Thursday, “Though the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of over 100 Trinity Rep performances, classes, and events this spring and summer, it will not end Trinity Rep’s 43-year history of presenting A Christmas Carol. Since it will not be practical or in the interest of public health to produce the holiday tradition in person this year, we will be creating an online version of A Christmas Carol and offering it free of charge to everyone beginning in late November.”
“A Christmas Carol brings in over $1 million in revenue each year, which is about half of all non-subscription ticket sales each year,” said Kate Brandt, Trinity’s, Director of Marketing & Communications.
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The financial implication for Trinity and downtown restaurants, parking lots, and hotels is significant. “Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol typically generates approximately $4 million in direct and indirect economic activity,” according to Brandt.
Last season, there were 71 total performances, between public performances and Project Discovery student matinees. The theater has sold between 30,000 to 35,000 tickets on average over the past few years.
"Student tickets are significantly reduced from general public performances. Those tickets range from $13-$18. Students from 73 schools attended last year," said Brandt.
Trinity will produce an online version of the show this year.
“The tradition of producing A Christmas Carol every year for more than four decades and over a million audience members is one in which we take great pride. We love knowing that Trinity Rep is an important part of so many families’ holiday traditions. Skipping a year of telling this story is not something that we would consider in normal times, and this year, it is simply unthinkable,” said Trinity in a statement.
"Our goal is to raise at least $100,000 to underwrite the direct production and distribution costs of the free online production. That said, we must also raise Annual Fund donations to cover the ongoing overhead of the facilities and staff to produce the show," said Brandt.
“Now, more than ever, we need to find ways to (virtually) come together, hear stories of hope, and keep treasured traditions alive. Though we would much prefer to be gathered in the theater together in person, we are excited to create this unique opportunity for our community to celebrate the season,” added Trinity.
Ticket Info
Virtual tickets will be available to all at no charge, but registration will be required.
According to the theater, you may sign up now at TrinityRep.com/carol to receive a notification when registration opens. Subscribers who previously purchased tickets for this year’s production can complete the form on this page or will be contacted in the coming weeks by the box office to discuss their options. Patrons may elect to donate the price of their tickets to underwrite the free production, apply the price of their tickets to next year’s show, or request a refund.
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