This article was published on October 13, 2017

In 20 years, the DCPA’s partnership with Disney Theatrical Productions has infused $267 million into local economy

The seven-week pre-Broadway engagement of Frozen made an estimated $30 million economic impact on the host city of Denver, The Denver Center for the Performing Arts announced today. In 20 years, the DCPA’s partnership with Disney Theatrical Productions has infused $267 million into the local economy.

The totals are based on a Broadway League study that that found when a Broadway show visits a city, it contributes an economic impact of roughly 3.6 times the gross ticket sales to that metropolitan area’s local economy. The formula takes into account travel, hotels, restaurants, parking and other businesses patronized by both theatergoers and production staff.

Frozen drew 125,900 patrons to the Denver Performing Arts Complex for 47 performances ending Oct. 1.

In addition, the unique opportunity for the DCPA to host Frozen before it goes to Broadway provided work for an estimated 242 workers from the local Stagehand, Wardrobe/Hair and Musicians unions from May 30 through the middle of October.

“It was a true joy to work with Disney Theatrical Productions this summer on the spectacular Broadway-bound Frozen, said John Ekeberg, Executive Director of DCPA Broadway. “Our audiences fell in love with the show and eagerly grabbed the opportunity to get a first look at this beautiful new musical.

“Frozen will go down as one of the brightest moments in Denver theatre history, and I’m so pleased the Denver Center got to play a part in the show’s journey.”

Jack Eldon, Vice President of Domestic Touring and Regional Engagements at Disney Theatrical Productions, said, “We are tremendously grateful to the Denver community who warmly welcomed the pre-Broadway debut of Frozen to their great city. Disney Theatrical Productions has a long history with the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, including The Lion King Tour launch and world premiere of The Little Mermaid.  We thank our wonderful partners at the Denver Center for another sensational engagement.”

Frozen soon joins Disney Theatrical hits Aladdin and The Lion King on Broadway, beginning performances at the St. James Theatre on Thursday, Feb. 22, and opening Thursday, March 22.

Denver Center’s history with Disney Theatrical Productions since 1997:

• Engagements: 14
• Production launches: 3 (including 2 pre-Broadway)
• Playing weeks: 64
• Performances: 481
• Attendance: More than 1 million
• Gross box office: $73 million
• Estimated economic impact: $267 million over 20 years