GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Statistics About The Most Popular Plays

To analyze, interpret and present statistics on the most popular plays based on factors such as ticket sales, audience demographics, and critical reviews.

Last Updated: June 23, 2024

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

How we write

In this post, we explore an array of fascinating statistics that highlight the immense popularity and impact of various plays in the world of theatre. From Shakespearean classics to modern Broadway hits, these statistics shed light on the enduring appeal and cultural significance of some of the most iconic theatrical productions to date.

Statistic 1

""A Midsummer Night’s Dream" is recognized as the most performed play by William Shakespeare, making it one of the most popular plays worldwide"

Statistic 2

"Plays written by Shakespeare account for 30% of the most performed plays worldwide."

Statistic 3

""Hamlet" is the most filmed play of all time with over 50 film adaptations."

Statistic 4

""The Mousetrap" by Agatha Christie is the longest-running play in history, contributing to its popularity."

Statistic 5

"Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman" has been performed in over 40 countries."

Statistic 6

"In a ranking of the most popular plays of the 20th century, "Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett came in first."

Statistic 7

"Data from the National Theatre shows that "War Horse" was seen by over 7 million people worldwide."

Statistic 8

""Les Misérables," a musical adaptation of Victor Hugo's novel, is the longest-running musical in London's West End and second worldwide."

Statistic 9

"Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House" is often cited as one of the most performed plays globally."

Statistic 10

"The Royal Shakespeare Company's production of "Matilda The Musical" has been seen by over 8 million people worldwide since its inception in 2010."

Statistic 11

""Wicked", a Broadway musical, has broken the box office record at the Gershwin Theatre 20 times, reflecting its popularity."

Statistic 12

""Harry Potter and the Cursed Child", a two-part play, sold over 2 million tickets in its first two years on Broadway."

Statistic 13

""Hamilton" is one of the top-grossing Broadway shows of all time, earning over $1 billion in global revenue."

Statistic 14

"With over 50 years on stage, "Fiddler on the Roof" has enjoyed some of the longest runs on Broadway, contributing to its global popularity."

Statistic 15

""The Book of Mormon" broke London box office records for the highest-grossing single week of a show in West End history."

Statistic 16

""Peter Pan" by J.M. Barrie has been adapted into over 50 works including plays, films, and television shows."

Statistic 17

""Our Town" by Thornton Wilder is one of the most frequently performed American plays globally."

Statistic 18

"Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" has run countless productions in over a dozen languages since its premiere in 1947."

In conclusion, the statistics presented showcase the enduring popularity and worldwide impact of various plays throughout history. From the timeless works of William Shakespeare to modern Broadway sensations like “Hamilton” and “Wicked,” these plays have captured the hearts and minds of audiences across different cultures and generations. The diversity of genres, authors, and adaptations highlights the rich tapestry of storytelling within the realm of theater, demonstrating the universal appeal and lasting relevance of live performances.