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Omaha Performing Arts Creates Major Economic Impact

Omaha Performing Arts had a $40 million economic impact on our community last year.

Joan Squires, president of Omaha Performing Arts, says that’s the result of a study OPA commissioned. 

Squires says the positive numbers are due to a variety of factors including performers who come to town staying in Omaha hotels and capital improvements OPA has made to its buildings. 

She says the biggest boost in the numbers is directly related to the increase in ticket sales.  About 50% of Omaha Performing Arts’ patrons live outside Douglas County with 18% from out of state.

"I think it really is a testament to the wonderful Broadway shows, the presentations, the performances that we are bringing in.  They are of the highest quality and people really are showing up to see them.  Furthermore, they are coming downtown and not just buying tickets.  They’re parking downtown and eating downtown and some are staying overnight in the hotels.”

Squires says the 2014 labor impact was nearly $14 million for labor by more than 500 workers. 

The tax revenue impact was $1.6 million in total tax revenues.