Visual, performing and literary arts contribute 1.4% of GVA to the UK economy.  Nearly half of this falls within the performing arts.  Productivity levels – calculated as GVA per employee – are running at £28,200.  There are approximately 31,000 businesses in visual performing and literary arts across Great Britain.  These are distributed as follows; 29,200 in England, 1,100 in Scotland and 750 in Wales.  Their businesses employ approximately 90,600 people across Great Britain, the vast majority of which are located in England (81,600).  There are 5,900 people employed in Scotland and 3,000 in Wales.  There are 186,580 people working in the visual, performing and literary arts sub-sector (as their main paid occupation).The largest segment is performing arts, which accounts for nearly 85,000 people (or 45%).

Many performing arts organisations face competition for venues to stage events.  It is essential that touring companies gain good box office returns.

Across the performing arts there is a need for improved procedural business skills that allow employers and practitioners to run business effectively.

Regional hotspot: South East and North West regions

Performing arts key statistics:

• 84,470 people currently work in the performing arts sector.
• 19% of the workforce are freelance, and 55% self-employed.
• Performing arts contribute £4.1b to the UK economy.
• 59% of the sector is male.  
• 95% of the workforce is white.
• There are 5,350 businesses in the sector.
• 88% employ less than 5 people.

Sources: Skills Needs Assessment 2007 and Gap Analysis and Market Testing 2007

Click here for information on entry routes and progression in the sub-sector.