Court claims young patrons

Press, 3 September 1986, Page 18

Court claims young patrons

The Court Theatre’s audience is made up of more young theatre-goers, an audience survey has found. The Court Theatre has been conducting the survey since late 1985. Results to date reveal how Christchurch audience habits are developing, and that the Court is keeping pace. There is an increase in the number of young theatre-goers. Forty-two per cent of the Court’s audience is under 34 years of age. There is a considerable representation of young professionals. Although 60 per cent of the audience have not attended tertiary institutions, all show a keen interest and understanding of theatre and like to make well-informed decisions as to what they will attend, the theatre found. Elric Hooper, the Court’s artistic director, said, “While our estab- • lished audience remains

loyal, supportive, and enthusiastic, we are very pleased to see a new generation realising how much theatre has to offer as entertainment. “We endeavour to select works that will satisfy a wide range of tastes and to present exciting and fresh productions. It is gratifying to receive feedback that this approach is working so well.” Old fashioned fears that theatre may be a “posh” or exclusive activity seem to be disappearing. This trend is reflected in the greater public support for other art forms. Of those surveyed 41 per cent are interested in orchestral activities, and 53 per cent in other theatre. The cinema holds the greatest allure, however, with 85 per cent of theatre-goers expressing a keen interest. The Court will continue its survey.