SOLT & UK Theatre welcome the publication of the Audience Agency’s ‘Valuing Creative and Cultural R&D and Innovation‘, which powerfully demonstrates the economic and cultural value generated when creative risk, research and innovation are properly supported.
The report references work from SOLT & UK Theatre members, including the Birmingham Hippodrome, the Curve Theatre Leicester, the National Theatre, Rambert, the Royal Opera & Ballet, and the RSC. It highlights the vital role that theatres and producers play within the UK’s wider creative R&D ecosystem, from talent development and technical innovation to IP creation with global reach.
SOLT & UK Theatre Co-CEO, Hannah Essex said:
“In the face of economic strain, RD&I is not a luxury but necessary for future resilience. The example of Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby, which is highlighted in this report, demonstrates how creative IP, developed in the UK, can drive sustained value across multiple sectors. Its journey from screen to large‑scale live performance shows how theatre enables innovation in choreography, immersive staging, touring infrastructure and audience development, while generating jobs and skills development.
“We look forward to working with partners and Government to ensure that theatre and live performance are fully recognised and supported as core contributors to the UK’s creative research, innovation and growth agenda”.
Share: