The impact of theatre lockdowns in the first half of 2020 to stem the spread of COVID-19 is quickly apparent in this second edition of Opera Canada’s ranking of the country’s performing companies coast to coast. As our tables show, opera industry revenues for the 2019/20 season totaled $72.3 million, a 15% decrease from $85.4 million the previous year. On the expenditure side, there was a similar 15% decrease, to $71 million from $83.6 million the previous year. Looking at the finer detail behind those bottom-line numbers, however, you see the industry’s financial dynamics shifting on multiple fronts as companies cope with the sudden loss of performing schedules. While major organizations at least enjoyed half a season in the last half of 2019, many smaller ones, especially those that mount seasonal festivals, lost their entire seasons early in the pandemic.
To compile the numbers, we have again relied on the T3010 annual reports Revenue Canada requires of all registered charities. This means that only companies with charitable status appear in the Opera Canada ranking. But since that status allows companies to give donors tax receipts, a vital fundraising tool
