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| RPO 2015-16 season finale credit: Erich Camping |
Ward Stare’s inaugural season as music director was the first year of subscription revenue and package growth since the 2007-08 season, reversing a multi-year trend for the RPO that is consistent with orchestras nationwide. During the 2015-16 season, subscription revenue grew by 4% over 2014-15, and subscriber retention rates were the highest in six seasons.
Subscription and single ticket sales both exceeded their budgeted goals, with single ticket revenue growing again (2014-15 was a record-breaking year) to total $1.68 million. The most impressive improvements in single ticket revenue and paid attendance were seen in the Pops and Sunday Matinee Series, as well as with The Nutcracker, a Rochester holiday favorite and collaboration with Rochester City Ballet.
Strong subscription sales continue for the 2016-17 season and have already surpassed final subscription totals for the 2015-16 season in Philharmonics, Pops, and Sunday Matinee Series. The RPO is poised to grow subscriptions for the second year in a row next season, fueled by an increase in the number of performances and the addition of blockbuster programming like Yo-Yo Ma, which sold out to subscribers in only six weeks.
“These numbers go against the industry trend in orchestras and are a true testament to the artistic leadership of Ward Stare,” says RPO President & CEO Ralph Craviso, who has led the orchestra since October 1, 2015. “We are proud of the RPO’s ticketing success, but it’s important to note that ticket sales cover only 40 percent of our overall operating costs. As a world-class orchestra that is deeply committed to serving the community, we in turn look to the community for support.”
Subscription packages, including two Compose-Your-Own Series', are still available for the upcoming season. Single tickets for the RPO’s 2016-17 season go on sale Friday, July 29 at 10 a.m.
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