Performing arts in London

SIC 90010London|Data verified: 2026-04-17
5,387Active Companies

London is one of the UK's largest centres for performing arts, with 5,387 active companies registered in this sector. This concentration makes it a major hub for performing arts businesses at the national level. The average performing arts company in London is 6.3 years old, indicating a sector that has seen significant recent growth alongside established players. Growth has been exceptional: 63% of active companies were formed since 2020, with a further 29% established during the 2010s. This makes it one of the fastest-growing sectors in London. Across the UK, other leading locations for performing arts include Manchester (326 companies) and Glasgow (309). Notable performing arts companies based in London include ENGLISH NATIONAL OPERA, LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA LIMITED, EMERGENCY EXIT ARTS.

5,387
Active
6.3y
Avg Age
8+
Featured
Formation by Decade
29%
63%
Pre-1990: 95
1990s: 84
2000s: 252
2010s: 1,577
2020s: 3,370

Frequently Asked Questions about Performing arts in London

How many performing arts companies are in London?

There are 5,387 active performing arts companies (SIC code 90010) currently registered in London, based on Companies House data. This includes businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to large enterprises, that have selected this SIC code as their primary activity.

What is the average age of performing arts companies in London?

The average performing arts company in London is 6.3 years old. This represents a balanced mix of established businesses and newer market entrants. Company ages are calculated from incorporation dates registered at Companies House.

Is the performing arts sector growing in London?

Yes, the performing arts sector in London is experiencing significant growth. 63% of currently active companies were formed since 2020, and 29% during the 2010s. This sustained formation rate indicates strong demand.

Where else in the UK are performing arts companies concentrated?

Beyond London, the leading UK locations for performing arts companies are: Manchester (326), Glasgow (309), Bristol (291), Birmingham (218), Liverpool (206). These concentrations often reflect regional economic specialisations, proximity to key markets, or established industry clusters.

What other industries are prominent in London?

Alongside performing arts, other significant industries in London include: Buying and selling of own real estate (54,323), Other letting and operating of own or leased real estate (53,308), Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet (48,095), Management consultancy activities other than financial management (47,561). This diversity of business activity contributes to London's overall economic resilience.

How can I find performing arts companies in London?

You can search for performing arts companies in London using UVAGATRON's company explorer, which allows filtering by SIC code, location, company status, and risk profile. Each company record includes director information, filing history, and risk signals from 50+ government databases. Alternatively, you can search directly on Companies House.

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Data sourced from Companies House, HM Land Registry, FCA Register, and 50+ government databases. Last updated: 2026-04-17.