Broadway News: At the end of Broadway’s first full week of 2023, five shows that had been open at the end of 2022 played their final performance. By the end of the month, 12 Broadway productions in total ended their runs. It may sound bleak, and many (from media publications to coalitions) have reported these numbers using terms like “record-breaking.” But the truth of the matter is that January closures are a part of the typical rhythm of Broadway and the number of closures this year is not record-breaking.
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The Broadway News article offers a nuanced reflection on the challenges and complexities of the Broadway industry. The article recognizes that the Broadway industry is facing a multitude of issues, including pandemic-related challenges, limited engagements, and low audience attendance, that are contributing to show closings.
The article does not take a simplistic view that all Broadway show closings are due to one single cause. Instead, it acknowledges that there are multiple factors at play, and each case requires careful consideration to understand the underlying causes.
Additionally, the article highlights the resilience of the Broadway industry and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It notes that producers and creative teams are constantly exploring new ways to create and present shows that appeal to audiences and overcome challenges.
A nuanced reflection on this issue also recognizes the importance of supporting the Broadway industry during these uncertain times. It is crucial to recognize the significant contributions that Broadway makes to the cultural and economic landscape of New York City and beyond.
I definitely noticed a bunch of shows closing on Broadway (especially as many of them were big names to me like Beetlejuice, Into the Woods and the Piano Lesson.) It always seems a little bit worrying to see so many shows close at once, but reading this article and seeing that it’s a natural part of the Broadway ecosystem for so many shows to close right after the holiday season, it makes more sense. Broadway is a business, and producers are doing what they think is the smartest course of action in the future of the show. It is interesting to see that while the numbers have gone up the percentage of shows closing has not gone up so much as stayed similar. There is a lot of nuance to the business I don’t yet understand, but it’s really interesting to read this introduction to Broadway business and show closures.
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