Question reference: S6W-11079
- Asked by: Sarah Boyack, MSP for Lothian, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 22 September 2022
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Current status: Answered by Neil Gray on 29 September 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to reports that ticket sales for Edinburgh festivals were down by 25% in 2022, compared with 2019.
Answer
The Scottish Government would like to congratulate all the artists, venues, production members and organisers of Edinburgh’s festivals this year. We recognise that overall 2022 was perceived as a ‘recovery year’ for the festivals and was key in bringing back confidence to the wider culture sector, especially with regards to returning audiences.
We have aided the festivals in this recovery and have provided a total of approximately £14.1 million in financial support since the beginning of the pandemic.
Overall, whilst ticket sales were down in comparison to 2019, Edinburgh Festivals were well attended; with a number reporting that they surpassed their 2022 targets. This is a good outcome taking into consideration the many challenges it has been necessary to overcome, and the added caution in programming this year. The Scottish Government will continue to work with festival organisers to build on their success this year, and ensure their continued recovery.