First two shows generate $14 million in economic impact SYRACUSE — The current Broadway In Syracuse season at the Landmark Theatre still has four more shows, but the first two brought in big […]
First two shows generate $14 million in economic impact
SYRACUSE — The current Broadway In Syracuse season at the Landmark Theatre still has four more shows, but the first two brought in big crowds and boosted the local economy.
Broadway In Syracuse and the Landmark Theatre say the venue attracted 60,000 patrons for “Les Misérables” and Disney’s “The Lion King.”
The estimated economic impact of both Les Misérables and The Lion King exceeded $14 million, according to the Jan. 8 announcement.
Broadway in Syracuse says it used a calculation from the Broadway League, which factors in related patron spending such as restaurant and parking income. Broadway League is the national trade association for the Broadway industry.
Les Misérables and Disney’s The Lion King represented the first two shows of the 2024-2025 M&T Bank Broadway season.
“The financial impact these spectacular touring Broadway shows have on the Landmark and on our community can’t be overstated,” Mike Intaglietta, executive director of the Landmark Theatre, said in the announcement. “Just as important is the vibrancy… restaurants packed, hotels booked, our sidewalks and streets lined with people. We look forward to continuing to attract high caliber arts and entertainment in 2025.”
Broadway In Syracuse’s season started Oct. 22 with Les Misérables, which ran for eight performances. The cast and crew of 90 patronized and lodged in the downtown area.
Disney’s The Lion King moved into the Landmark on Dec. 3, bringing with it 17 trucks, and 118 cast and crew members. While in Syracuse, company members patronized the downtown area for two weeks during their 16-performance run, using 68 hotel rooms.
“The Lion King tour has always been so warmly welcomed in Syracuse, and we were delighted to return for a third time,” Jack Eldon, VP, domestic touring and regional engagements, Disney Theatrical Group, said in the announcement. “We remain overwhelmed by the enduring response to the show and thank the Syracuse community and our partners at The Landmark Theatre and Broadway In Syracuse for another sensational engagement. We look forward to returning in the near future.”
Local businesses welcomed these productions with show-specific specials, and entertained thousands of customers as they visited the downtown area.
“With our restaurant in close proximity to the Landmark Theatre, we see a significant increase in our sales when the Broadway shows come into town,” said Ryan Benz, owner of nearby restaurant Oh My Darling, said in the announcement. “From a percentage perceptive, I’d estimate it’s a 40 percent bump compared to nights when the theatre is dark — and more importantly, the City comes to life!”
The remaining shows of the current season are still to come in 2025. They include “TINA - The Tina Turner Musical;” “Mamma Mia!;” “The Cher Show;” and “Beetlejuice.”
