Broadway has record season

Things were looking up, including box-office grosses, attendance and, yes, ticket prices, on Broadway in 2005.

Spurred by strong-performing musicals and plays, Broadway grossed a record $825 million in 2005, a jump from $749 million in 2004, according to figures released this week by the League of American Theatres and Producers.

Attendance also rose, climbing to 11.98 million for 39 shows, up from 11.33 million the previous calendar year, when 34 productions opened.

Top ticket prices rose beyond the $100 mark, with such popular musicals as “Spamalot,” “Wicked” and “Mamma Mia!” fetching $110 for most of their best seats.