The performing arts industry: How is it evolving and what does its future look like?

Written by Terence Rodia, Director of YOU Management

The performing arts industry has undergone many transformations in recent years, with developments in social change, technology and diversity, whilst post-pandemic life has accelerated the shift towards accessible viewing and reliance on advancements in technology.

According to UK Theatre, the theatre industry generates a turnover of £4.4 billion a year into the economy, whilst supporting around a quarter of a million workers. The industry is ever evolving, and its future looks exciting when it comes to both the audience experience and opportunities for performers.

Content production

Content production has seen a significant shift towards digital streaming, allowing for more diverse distribution channels. Following the pandemic, many productions have turned to digital viewing and hybrid models, with popular shows now available to watch on streaming services.

This has allowed industry productions to become more accessible to a wider audience, as well as opening up new revenue opportunities through pay-per-view. There has even been the emergence of streaming services such as National Theatre at Home, Digital Theatre and Marquee TV, where viewers can watch theatre productions, as well as popular sites such as Disney+ and Netflix, now offering recordings of famous shows such as Hamilton.

Representation

The musical theatre industry has witnessed steps in the right direction regarding diversity and representation of minority or disadvantaged groups. Historically, Black and Asian actors, writers and directors have otherwise been marginalised, however, The Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation’s Centre Stage Report found that the intake of ethnic and socioeconomic groups in the academy have slowly improved.

Yet, in schools across the wider theatre industry, there is still a long way to go. We have begun to see more diversity in areas like music and cinema, and it is expected to increase in the arts as we continue to break down stereotypes whilst introducing unique perspectives and creativity. Representation is crucial in performing arts as it allows underrepresented communities to see themselves reflected on stage, and create a feeling of empowerment, while also allowing for a shared understanding of perspectives and experiences.

Technology

Advancements in technology have had a huge influence on the performing arts industry, with developments in not only sound and lighting, but set and costume design. Sound systems have evolved from basic voice projection to multi-channel, surround sound. Ever-evolving technology is allowing artists to create a more immersive and interactive experience for audiences.

Technology such as 3D printing and projection mapping has made prop and set creation a much quicker and easier process, leading to more intricate and impressive set design. Ultimately, digital transformation has broadened the boundaries of what can be considered as art in the industry.

The future of AI

It’s undeniable that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking over all sectors – and the performing arts industry is no exception. The introduction of AI has brought challenges to the industry, with concerns over job opportunities, especially for writers and those working behind the scenes. So much so that we have seen major strikes in Hollywood over the very real threat of AI, and the fear of industry professionals being “replaced”.

From choreography and scriptwriting to scene creation, AI’s role is constantly growing. However, due to the nature of the arts, it can’t replace the authenticity of a human being and their emotions. Instead, it may be able to provide inspiration and act as a collaborative tool for creatives to produce new and exciting work. AI can have positive prospects too and potentially make the creative process a little easier.

Final thoughts

Although the performing arts industry is developing and changing in many ways for the better, the concern over AI is very real for those in creative roles and will continue to change what “performing arts” looks like.

Equally, there is still room for improvement where diversity and inclusion are concerned, but it’s expected to continue to grow and become more widely implemented across the industry as a whole.