SALARIES:
One might think that the only salaries coming out of the profits of a musical are it's cast, and it's safe to assume that if a musical has big-name stars in the lead roles, then salaries will be high. But, every chorus member from the swing to the understudy must also be paid and when a musical employs a large cast, a lot of money will go into paying salaries.
There are also the behind-the-scenes personnel including the stage manager, director, and a variety of others including dance captains, costume mistresses, make-up artists and whatever it takes to achieve the desired effect for the performance.
THEATRE SPACE RENTAL:
Theatres can't operate without making money so productions must pay for theatre use including lighting, heat, maintenance staff, ushers, ticket takers, concession stand personnel and any number of others. If ticket sales are poor, a show will be forced to close because it won't be able to pay everyone associated with the production.
ADVERTISING/PROMOTION:
Even the biggest shows need advertising to get the public to come out to performances and advertising is expensive. Also, often free tickets are donated as give-a-ways for contests and other free promotions to encourage people who might otherwise not attend a performance to come out and experience the excitement of live theatre. It all costs money.
BOX OFFICE:
Included in theatre costs, the box office must be staffed in order to reserve tickets and allow producers a chance anticipate the turnout for their shows. From the bank charges to be able to take credit card payments over the phone to the actual cost of printing up the tickets and paying the operators, the Box Office is a necessary part of reaching the public.
SETS:
Nowadays, set designers have risen to new levels with special effects and designs that rival Hollywood, but again, this doesn't come cheap. The more elaborate the sets, the more money needed to realize the dream.
COSTUMES:
Costumes, like sets, are an integral part of completing the reality of live theatre. Period costumes are often the most expensive, but new, innovative musicals often require elaborate costumes as well.
MUSIC:
Today's debate over live musicians or taped music rages on. Live, professional orchestra musicians cost a lot of money and a conductor is also required. Many productions are opting for a professional recording of the score that can be used from rehearsal through to performances. Also, travelling productions often can't afford to send large groups of musicians so recordings are more convenient as well as more cost effective.
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