Michael Franti opened the Britt Season

In a season that included key operational changes, Britt achieved success in several areas that are critical to building a strong future for the organization. The 2011 summer season saw a big jump in attendance and concession sales, while member and patron responses to changes to the membership program, grounds improvements, and new education and outreach programs were also positive indicators for the organization’s new path.

For the 2011 summer pop season, per-concert average attendance was 1,550, the highest-per-concert average since 2003, and an increase of 12% over 2010. Overall total attendance was just over 62,000, up 15% from last year. Out of 40 concerts on the Britt hill, eight concerts sold out completely, with many others generating large audiences.

Executive Director Jim Fredericks commented, “In 2011, we continued to build audience with shows that appealed to a broad spectrum of musical tastes. Sharing the Britt Experience with newcomers is a big win for us. Several of the shows that appealed to new audiences, like The Decemberists, Sara Bareilles and the John Butler Trio, also sold well to our traditional core audience. That was a big plus. Now we have to build on that and continue to grow our community support.”

Ticket sales cover just over 60% of Britt’s operating expenses for the pops season, and 33% for the Classical Festival. In an effort to close the gap between operational expenses and ticket revenue, key changes were made this year, including restructuring the Britt membership benefits program, and revamping and expanding concessions offerings.

Changes to the membership program resulted in a net gain in membership contributions of over 14%. Concessions revenue increased by 150% from 2010 to 2011.

Publishers Whit and Jo with Smokey Robinson at the final Concert of the Britt Season

In addition, 2011 included several new education and outreach programs, including Rock Camp for local teens, and the Table Rock City concerts, a series of pre-concert performances which highlighted local artists and created a new space for people to enjoy music on the Britt hill.

”We knew we needed to change some things to build a better future for Britt and our supporters, and we’re very grateful for the way the public responded to these changes.  We are now on the right path. Even with this progress, however, it’s important for people to realize we have a ways to go on that path to regain our financial footing as an organization. As we celebrate our 50th season in 2012, we’ll look forward to a year of celebrating, and building community support.”

Britt Festivals invites audiences and artists to celebrate the joy of live performance, the power of community and the magic of the Britt Experience. Through ongoing education and audience development programs, Britt connects audiences to the inspirational power of classical music, and helps new generations of listeners discover the wonder of music and performance. In addition to presenting concerts, Britt Festivals maintains an education program through the Britt Institute. Established in 1985, the Britt Institute hosts a variety of programs including summer camps, workshops, elementary school activities, lectures and “meet the artist” opportunities.

More at Brittfest.org