Opera Conference 2023: The Audience

Audience behavior has changed dramatically over the past three years of COVID upheaval. Many newcomers discovered opera digitally and in free outdoor performances, while long-standing ticket buyers established new patterns of cultural engagement. Remote work presents new challenges, as individuals may be less inclined to travel to a city center for evening performances. At the same time, there are patrons ready to resume travel, visit restaurants, and gather with friends and family. In this session, panelists explored how companies can increase audience recruitment and retention within the context of these complicated dynamics.