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BEHIND THE CURTAIN:
MAKING BROADWAY TRAVEL MAKE SENSE
Non-Performance Careers in Broadway Theatre
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BEHIND THE CURTAIN: Non-Performance Careers in Broadway Theatre
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This Ar ticle ©
Located in the heart of New York City, Broadway is home to some of the world’s most iconic and historic theatres. The Broadway experience is long-synonymous with excellence in live entertainment, demonstrated by the millions of audience members from around the globe that f lock to Broadway each year to witness its magic, making it a cultural and economic cornerstone of the city. When most people think of Broadway, they envision the dazzling performances, starstudded casts and unforgettable musical numbers. However, there’s a thriving world that lives behind the scenes which plays an equally vital role in making every Broadway production a success. Non-performance jobs on Broadway—such as stage manager, marketing director, general manager and technical crew—are essential roles in the theatrical machine. In this article, we’ll explore the lesserknown careers that keep Broadway productions running smoothly, shedding light on the education and skills required to pursue these rewarding roles.
NON-PERFORMANCE JOBS ON BROADWAY Stage Manager: The unsung hero of every production, the stage manager is responsible for ensuring that every aspect of the show runs smoothly. From coordinating rehearsals, managing the backstage crew and calling cues during performances, stage managers do it all. A degree in stage management, often from a theatre arts program, and excellent organizational skills are essential. Marketing Director: Behind every sold-out show is a marketing team working tirelessly to promote it to potential audience members, including developing and executing a number of strategies to attract ticket buyers. Often required for this level of position is a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field, along with a passion for and knowledge of theatre.
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General Manager: General managers oversee the business side of theatre productions and handle aspects such as budgets and contract negotiations. They’re also responsible for ensuring that everything operates within legal and financial constraints. A degree in arts management or business administration is common, along with extensive experience in arts administration. Technical Crew: A show’s technical crew encompasses a wide range of roles, from lighting and sound technicians to set designers, carpenters and more. These crew members are the hands that literally bring the creative visions of directors and designers to life. Education for a technical role can vary, from on-thejob training to specialized technical programs, depending on the role. 4
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Costume Designer: These artists are responsible for creating the visual identity of the characters audiences see in a Broadway show. Often with incredible knowledge in fashion history, costume designers collaborate with directors and performers to design and produce costumes that enhance the storytelling. A bachelor’s degree in costume design or fashion is typically required. Props Master: Props masters— who must be resourceful and creative—are responsible for curating or creating every single item that audiences see actors interact while on stage, whether it’s as simple as a coffee mug or as complicated as a hard-to-find automobile from a specific era. Props masters often have a background in theatre production.
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EDUCATION AND TRAINING As previously mentioned, many non-performance roles on Broadway require formal education and specialized training. Bachelor’s degrees in relevant fields, such as theatre arts, arts management, marketing or design, can be beneficial. Additionally, internships and apprenticeships in the theatre industry provide invaluable handson experience. Networking within the Broadway community is also crucial. Joining industry associations, attending conferences, and building relationships with professionals can open doors to job opportunities. While the spotlight shines brightly on Broadway’s on-stage performers, it’s not without the dedicated professionals working behind the scenes that ensures every show is a success. Whether you aspire to be a stage manager, marketing director, general manager, part of the technical crew or otherwise, pursuing a Broadway career can be immensely rewarding. With the right education, training and dedication, you can play a vital role in bringing the magic of Broadway to life for audiences worldwide—on stage and off ! 5
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ALADDIN DISCOVER A WHOLE NEW WORLD AT ALADDIN, THE HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL . Night after night, ALADDIN grants wishes and makes audiences cheer. With unforgettable music, sensational dance numbers and breathtaking special effects that only Disney can deliver, it’s no wonder The Wall Street Journal calls it “Broadway magic!”
SCHEDULE Varies
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 14 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 6 years & up
LOC ATION New Amsterdam Theatre 7th Avenue & 42nd Street 214 West 42nd Street
ALADDIN on Broadway features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony ® and Academy Award ® winner Alan Menken (Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award winner Tim Rice (The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin (The Prom, The Wedding Singer). Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw (Mean Girls, The Prom, The Book of Mormon), AL ADDIN boasts an incomparable design team, with sets, costumes and lighting from Tony Award winners Bob Crowley (Mary Poppins), Gregg Barnes (Kinky Boots), and Natasha Katz (Frozen, The Prom). SEE WHY AUDIENCES AND CRITICS AGREE, ALADDIN IS “MUSICAL COMEDY WISH-FULFILLMENT!” —New York Magazine
Top Photo by Matthew Muprhy Bottom Photos (LtoR) by Deen van Meer, Deen van Meer, Matthew Murphy
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THE BOOK OF MORMON “THE GOLD STANDARD FOR COMEDY.” —Rolling Stone
THE BOOK OF MORMON, winner of 9 Tony Awards ® including Best Musical, is the brainchild of collaborators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, five-time Emmy ® Award-winning creators of South Park, and Robert Lopez, two-time Academy Award ® winner for Best Original Songs from the musicals Frozen and Coco and Tony Award-winning co-creator of Avenue Q. Entertainment Weekly calls THE BOOK OF MORMON “the funniest show ever.” The New York Times simply calls it “the best musical of this century.”
SCHEDULE Tuesday 7pm Wednesday 7pm Thursday 7pm Friday 7pm Saturday 2pm & 8pm Sunday 2pm & 7pm
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
“I’VE NEVER HEARD SUCH ROOF-SHAKING LAUGHTER.”
10 tickets
—Vanity Fair
RECOMMENDED AGE
“IT’S OUTRAGEOUS, SHOCKING, PEE-IN-YOUR-PANTS HILARIOUS.”
13 years & up Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.
—Huf fPost
LOC ATION Eugene O’Neill Theatre 230 West 49th Street
Photos by Paul Coltas and Julieta Cervantes
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CHICAGO After 27 years, CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder CHICAGO has been honored with 6 Tony Awards ®, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy ®, and thousands of standing ovations. Now the longest-running show on Broadway, you’ve got to see why the name on everyone’s lips is still...CHICAGO.
SCHEDULE Monday 7pm Tuesday 7pm Thursday 7pm Friday 8pm Saturday 2:30pm & 8pm Sunday 2pm & 7pm
“CHICAGO GLITTERS HYPNOTICALLY!” – The New York Times
RUNNING TIME
“CHICAGO REMAINS A SIZZLER — ONE EXTREMELY SEX-SEE EXPERIENCE!”
2 hours, 30 minutes
– The Star-Ledger
GROUP MINIMUM
“THE SHOW IS AS CRAZY-FUN AS EVER!”
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
– WCBS-T V / People Magazine
13 years & up
LOC ATION Ambassador Theatre 219 West 49th Street
Photos by Julia Cervantes and Jeremy Daniels
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HAMILTON A revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation.
SCHEDULE Varies
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 45 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 10 years & up
LOC ATION Richard Rodgers Theatre 226 West 46th Street
HAMILTON is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. HAMILTON features book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire. In addition to its 11 Tony® Awards, it has won Grammy® and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors. “THIS THEATRICAL LANDMARK HAS TRANSFORMED THEATER AND THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT HISTORY.” —The New York Times
Photos by Joan Marcus
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THE LION KING Experience the stunning artistry, the unforgettable music and the exhilarating choreography of this musical theater phenomenon that moves us all. A remarkable tale of hope and adventure, THE LION KING has found its way into the hearts of millions. As The New York Times says, “There is simply nothing else like it.” SCHEDULE Varies
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 14 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 6 years & up
LOC ATION Minskoff Theatre Broadway & 45th 200 West 45th Street
Winner of six Tony Awards® including Best Musical, Disney’s THE LION KING showcases the talents of one of the most acclaimed creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor reimagines the popular story using some of the theater’s most extraordinary stagecraft. THE LION KING also features the exceptional work of Tony Award-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and a glorious score crafted by the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Elton John and Tim Rice. Take your place in the circle of life at THE LION KING, The Award-Winning Best Musical, playing on Broadway eight times a week at the Minskoff Theatre. “THE MOST EXCITING, MOST INVENTIVE, MOST MOVING THEATER THAT HAS EVER COME TO BROADWAY.” —Good Morning America
Top Photo by Matthew Murphy Bottom Photos (LtoR) by Joan Marcus, Deen van Meer, Matthew Murphy
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MJ
SCHEDULE Tuesday 7pm Wednesday 2pm & 8pm
Winner of 4 Tony Awards including Best Choreography from director Christopher Wheeldon, and featuring a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Get tickets now to the show the Chicago Tribune calls “a brilliantly choreographed, gorgeously executed celebration.”
Thursday 7pm Friday 8pm
“A RIVETING ADRENALINE RUSH OF A SHOW!”
Saturday 2pm & 8pm Sunday 3pm
—Peter Marks, The Washington Post
RUNNING TIME
“MJ DELIVERS THE THRILLS.”
2 hours, 30 minutes
—Jesse Green, The New York Times
GROUP MINIMUM
“THE BEST DANCING ON BROADWAY.”
10 tickets
—Charles Isherwood, Broadway News
RECOMMENDED AGE 8 years & up
LOC ATION Neil Simon Theatre 250 West 52nd Street
Photos by Matthew Murphy
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MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL Pop the champagne, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is the winner of 10 Tony Awards ® —including Best Musical! Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment.
SCHEDULE Varies
Welcome to MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL.
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 35 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 12 years & up
LOC ATION Al Hirschfeld Theatre 302 West 45th Street
Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom and—above all—Love. With a book by Tony Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh, MOULIN ROUGE! is more than a musical...it is a state of mind. “EUPHORIC! GASP-INSPIRING! IN MOULIN ROUGE, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL.” —The New York Times
“EYE-POPPING SPECTACLE AND OFF-THE-CHARTS ENERGY.” —The Hollywood Repor ter
Photos by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
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SIX Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to reclaim their identities out of the shadow of their infamous spouse – remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
SCHEDULE Varies
RUNNING TIME 1 hour, 20 minutes
The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic’s Pick) and Variety calls SIX “A Solid 10!”
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 10 years & up
SIX is the winner of 23 awards, including the 2022 Tony Award ® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
LOC ATION Lena Horne Theatre 256 West 47th Street
The SIX: LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 Million streams in its first month. “A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF WIT THAT SPEAKS STRONGLY AND VIBRANTLY TO TODAY.” —Vogue “BROADWAY’S HIGH-ENERGY HISTORY REMIX REIGNS SUPREME!” —Enter tainment Weekly
2024 Broadway Cast Photos by Joan Marcus
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THE NOTEBOOK The Notebook is a new musical based on the best selling novel that inspired the iconic film. Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart, in a deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love. Chris Jones of The Chicago Tribune says The Notebook is “absolutely gorgeous, not to be missed!” and The Chicago Sun-Times calls it “superb! A stage musical for the ages!”
SCHEDULE Varies
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 20 minutes
RECOMMENDED AGE 10 years & up Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.
The Notebook is directed by Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT ) and Schele Williams (The Wiz, Aida) and features music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, book by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC’s This Is Us) and choreography by Katie Spelman.
LOC ATION Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre 236 W 45th Street
“ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS, NOT TO BE MISSED.” — Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune
“SUPERB! A STAGE MUSICAL FOR THE AGES.” — Steven Oxman, Chicago Sun-Times
“INGRID MICHAELSON’S SONGS ARE JUST BEAUTIFUL!” — Steven Oxman, Chicago Sun-Times
Photos by Liz Lauren
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WICKED WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”
SCHEDULE Varies For more information, visit WickedtheMusical.com
NOW CELEBRATING 20 YEARS ON BROADWAY!
RUNNING TIME 2 hours, 45 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 15 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 8 years & up Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the theatre.
LOC ATION Gershwin Theatre 222 West 51st Street (between Broadway & 8th)
“A MAGICAL BROADWAY MUSICAL WITH BRAINS, HEART AND COURAGE.” —Time Magazine
“A GLOBAL PHENOMENON!” —NBC T V “REMEMBER THE LAST TIME AN ORIGINAL BROADWAY MUSICAL MADE YOU LAUGH, CRY AND THINK? WICKED IS THE MOST COMPLETE, AND COMPLETELY SATISFYING, NEW MUSICAL IN A LONG TIME.” —USA Today
Don’t forget about Behind the Emerald Curtain- an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience led by cast members on select dates and on demand for larger groups. Please reach out to your tour operator or contact groups@321mgt.com.
Photos by Joan Marcus
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B R O A D WAY I N B O U N D :
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Photo (below) © Broadway Inbound
In the dazzling heart of New York City, the lights of Broadway shine as a beacon of entertainment and culture. For those seeking to experience the magic of Broadway, Broadway Inbound stands as the leading expert with a singular mission: to assist travelers and group buyers in their quest to attend a Broadway show. As an official group seller with a team of passionate experts who are well-versed in both travel and theater, Broadway Inbound is a visitor’s trusted partner in navigating the world of Broadway. Our dedicated staff share an unwavering love for the theater and a deep understanding of the intricacies of traveling to NYC. One of the things that sets us apart is our commitment to staying on top of the latest shows, like this season’s Back to the Future, Here Lies Love, or Harmony. Our team
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attends all the productions, allowing us to provide up-to-date insights and recommendations. We don’t just sell you tickets; we strive to match you with the show that perfectly aligns with your tastes. We understand that planning a trip to the Big Apple can be an overwhelming experience. Every day, our team helps people find the right show at the right price, with answers to the most common questions, like: “W hat shows are on Broadway right now?” “W hat’s the best show for groups?” “W hat should I see if I don’t speak English?”
Photos © Broadway Inbound
“How long is the show?”
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BOOKING IN ADVANCE WITH AN OFFICIAL SELLER LIKE BROADWAY INBOUND ENSURES YOU SECURE THE BEST SEATS AND MAKES YOUR VISIT TO THE THEATER HASSLE-FREE.
We understand that you want to enjoy this iconic experience without the stress of being overcharged or ending up at a disappointing performance. That’s where we step in, as your trusted advisors and partners. Whether you’re booking a group of 10 or just a pair of tickets, we’ve got you covered. At Broadway Inbound, we offer expert-led, personal customer service that extends across all channels. Whether you’re browsing our website, corresponding via email, engaging with us on social media, or speaking with us over the phone, our team is here to guide and assist you throughout the ticket-buying process. And since we’ve seen literally everything, from classics like Hamilton, Wicked,
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and The Lion King to newer hits like Hadestown, & Juliet, and MJ, we can make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for. No trip to New York City is complete without catching a Broadway show. The Broadway stage is where the city’s vibrant energy comes to life, and it’s an experience that leaves a lasting imprint on your memory. We encourage you to explore the rich tapestry of Broadway productions, taking the time to decide which show resonates with you the most. Booking in advance with an official seller like Broadway Inbound ensures you secure the best seats and makes your visit to the theater hassle-free. W hether you’re a f irst-time visitor or a seasoned theatergoer, our personalized ser vice and upto-date knowledge of Broadway shows will guide you to the perfect performance. Don’t let the planning process intimidate you; let us help you create a seamless, unforgettable trip to New York Cit y, complete with the magic of Broadway. Explore, decide, book in advance, and let Broadway Inbound be your partner on this remarkable journey.
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The orchestra is tuning, and the curtain’s about to go up. Broadway’s ready for you! Which shows are you dying to see? When was the last time you experienced the energy of NYC and the bright lights of Broadway? Don’t wait any longer; there’s never been a better time to visit the city. Broadway Inbound’s awesome team is ready to help turn your vision into an incredible Broadway adventure. See a show (or two). Add a workshop or tour. Get videos and all the info you need to build excitement.
BOOK ONLINE AT BROADWAYINBOUND.COM OR CALL US AT 866-302-0995.
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Broadway Inbound makes planning a trip to the theatre easy and fun, including the latest news and videos to help you discover the perfect show.
SEEING A SHOW? COME PREPARED. NYC is a busy place, but it adds to the excitement of going to a Broadway show. Here are some tips: »
Know where your theatre is and give yourself plenty of time to get there.
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Don’t bring outside food or drinks with you.
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There will be security at the door, and every person must have their own ticket to enter.
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Most of all, turn your phones off and enjoy the show without distractions.
BOOKING A GROUP: »
Always request the maximum number of tickets you could possibly use.
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Provide up to two alternate choices (seating, date, or show) when placing a request. Think about what’s important to your group and add your alternate choices accordingly.
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For best availability, consider requesting the front mezzanine, which can provide a great view and increase your chances of getting the show and date you want.
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Weeknight per formances generally have bet ter availabilit y than weekends. Some may star t a lit tle earlier—just be sure to check the star t time when you place a request.
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