Last week, the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre released “The State Of British Theatre In 2025: Growth, Risk And The Urgent Need For Public Investment,” outlining the UK theatre sector’s triumphs and challenges. Freelancers Make Theatre Work has written to SOLT/UK Theatre, expressing concern that the report overlooks freelancers, mentioning the words “freelance” and “self-employed” only once each despite our essential role in the industry’s ecosystem.
Amongst other issues, FMTW’s letter highlights the report’s failure to address mid-career freelancers’ financial instability, which drives experienced workers out, and disputes its claim of “generous” union pay. Our Big Freelancer Survey 2024 found that over a third of freelancers earned below the National Living Wage, underscoring inadequate pay as a structural barrier.
The report celebrates 37 million audience members in 2024 and theatre’s contribution to the £126 billion creative economy. Yet, as co-chief executives Claire Walker and Hannah Essex note, “the strain is showing,” with 32% of theatres facing deficits in 2024-25, particularly regional venues at risk of insolvency. This could mean fewer gigs for freelancers, with regional performances down 15% since 2019 as venues favor safer shows. Rising costs, with 95% of producers expecting higher staffing expenses, may also squeeze budgets available for freelancers. West End shows require up to £10 million upfront, and touring faces rising transport costs, limiting opportunities for innovative work.
Although it is a positive for audiences that regional ticket prices are 9.8% lower than in 2019 and that 88% of venues offer accessibility features, infrastructure risks loom: without £500 million, 40% of theatres could close within five years, impacting workspaces. SOLT and UK Theatre urge government support, including a “Theatre for Every Child” initiative.
FMTW is advocating for freelancers’ inclusion in these discussions.
