Theatre’s Financial “Angels”

In London and New York theatre shows can make seriously big money. That is why__ (0) __ in the theatre is becoming increasingly popular.

Putting money into the theatre is not __ (21) __ for those who prefer a safe return on their capital, but it does offer the occasional chance of huge profits. Moreover, it gives the investor a personal __ (22) __ in the glamorous world of show business.

Producers of new plays and musicals often __ (23)__ a large proportion of the initial capital from small investors, or “angels” as they’re known in the theatre business. Each investor will typically buy one or more investment units. A unit normally __ (24) __ a thousand dollars or more. When the show starts making a profit, the “angels” get their original money back. They then __(25)__ to get dividend payments, at an agreed percentage, for as long as the production keeps going.

However, the risks are high. Normally, shows run for at least a year before they see any profit. Even then, the__ (26) __of money generated for the investors can be very small. Most theatrical productions do not even get that far, closing__ (27) __within the first six months.

So, who would be an “angel”?  Typically, someone who has a keen interest in the potential__ (29) __from a big success: investors in one current production are__ (30) __profits of over 350 per cent.

20  A investing        B profiting                C risking                        D financing     

21  A selected         B recommended         C approved              D proposed

22  A interest           B bid                            C concern                      D hope

23  A arouse                  B rise                     C arise                          D raise

24  A pays                    B charges                       C costs                   D gains

25  A keep                    B persist                  C continue                      D maintain

26  A amount                 B total                    C number                       D figure

27  A in               B down                         C up                            D off

28  A approach               B attitude                 C perspective            D view

29  A fees                    B returns                        C advances                     D wages

30  A delighting               B rewarding             C enjoying               D succeeding