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On March 21, 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio ordered New York City’s theaters to indefinitely shutter due to the coronavirus pandemic. In the weeks that followed, the 41 Broadway theaters that housed shows such as Hamilton, Lion King, Mama Mia, and The Book of Mormon, have been completely in the dark. 

Recent reports in the New York Times expressed hope that the curtains may be able to rise soon. Initially, theater leaders thought it may be possible to consider reopening mid April. Obviously that optimistic date has since come and gone with the pandemic numbers not showing much improvement in the Big Apple or across the nation. 

sorry we are closed signAt an early April news conference, the Broadway League, a trade association representing producers and theater owners, said the 41 Broadway houses would remain shuttered at least through June 7, 2020. Insiders say that even this date is being too optimistic. They are mentally hoping for a potential July 4th opening to kick off the summer. In reality, the course the virus takes will be the determining factor that will signal the approval for reopening the theaters in NYC and across our nation. 

The shuttering of Broadway will be felt both economically and emotionally for weeks, if not months. The loss of performances and jobs has been and will continue to be devastating for the entire theater industry including: actors, performers, costume makers, choreographers, sound & light technicians, and the thousands of vendors that make Broadway thrive. 

empty bus stop The economic impact promises not only to cause hardship for the people within the theater industry but all will have a ripple effect to other areas. Those employed in the industry may have trouble paying rent, keeping up with bills, or providing for their family. These ripples of economic pain could go on and on. 

Emotionally, it’s crippling to see one of America’s institutions go dark. It is an all-to-painful reminder that our world has changed so incredibly much in the blink of an eye. The loss of jobs, while staggering, is nothing compared to the loss of entertainment that can soothe the soul, make us smile, and let us show our emotions freely. 

Until the time that we can go enmasse to theaters, it is our country’s duty to support this integral part of the fabric of our nation. For a limited time you will be able to find Broadway shows online in full video. Follow the link to get your favorite show right in the safety of your living room. Enjoy, and remember to do your part to flatten the curve and slow the spread of this pandemic. 

 

The world is still grappling with the global Coronavirus pandemic. Lives have been lost, businesses shuttered, and our sense of safety and security has been all but ripped away. Now, maybe more than any other time in our history, is a time to think about ways to improve our mental health. 

Being quarantined due to this virus can be a claustrophobic feeling for many, while others thrive upon the idea of not having to go anywhere or do anything. We all respond in different ways. 

Our mental health most definitely will be impacted over the next days and weeks, or even potentially months. One thing to keep in mind as we all learn what our new “normal” is about to become is that there are some outlets that can help. 

Exercise, meditation, reading, movies, and yes, theater can help improve our mental health. In no way are we condoning visiting a theater. But as we await the days when venturing out to Broadway becomes feasible again, watching televised versions will have to do. 

How can theater and other self-care activities help boost your mood? Here are a few ways… 

hands connectingA Feeling of Connectivity

At a time when we are each feeling a sense of loss of our normal lives, at least for now, it is important to connect with others. Theater, even if it is pre-recorded or the movie version of a Broadway hit, can still help us connect. It will let you know that you are not alone in this. We will all get through this, and anything else that comes our way… together. 

According to Thrive Global, “One of the chief obstacles that many individuals struggling with mental health issues often have to overcome is a sense of isolation or of being judged for their condition. Through theater, however, they can help build strong bonds with others and create a strong sense of community. “

Healthy Expression 

Theater allows us to see that emotions are ok and that expressing them is healthy and normal. Watching one of your favorite characters on stage, a screen, or on the pages of a book can help you experience emotions that maybe you couldn’t come to grips with or couldn’t put a name to. This healthy expression of emotions is crucial to maintaining positive mental health. 

heartAbility to Relate Feelings 

Theater can help individuals who are struggling psychologically and give mental health professionals a glimpse into the nature of their injuries, which can help them better understand how to heal them. Being able to relate how you are feeling to a scene, character, or play can help others understand what you are feeling inside. 

We look forward to the days ahead when theater will once again become an outlet for our emotions and we all navigate this uncharted territory. Stay safe and be well. 

 

The novel Coronavirus has all of us reeling. From the hoarding of toilet paper, to learning how to work remotely, to understanding the importance of social distancing, we all have a lot to absorb. Normal everyday things become acts that could make us all vulnerable. Going to the store, hugging a friend, and doing our jobs, have all come to a grinding halt here and across the globe. 

Places that are symbols of hope and resiliency, like New York City’s Theater District, are going dark for the sake of “flattening the curve” and attempting to slow the spread of the virus. 

Times Square NYAs of March 12, 2020, Broadway’s theaters went dark with current plans to stay that way for a month or until the immediate threat has passed. 

The decision was made for several basic reasons. The industry faced restrictions on audience size and concern from actors and audiences about health risks during the coronavirus pandemic. Therefore the industry announced that shows will be shuttered through April 12. 

While the adage, “The show must go on,” is usually synonymous with the scrappy resiliency of the theater industry. Think about it. Broadway theater has remained open through the natural disasters, depression, wars, and many dark days in our collective history. Now, for the safety and well-being of its actors and theatergoers, it has taken the drastic step to shutter their doors. 

Broadway joins Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Museum of Art as iconic NYC art institutions that have been temporarily closed due to the overwhelming scare of the coronavirus pandemic.

The New York Times interviewed Patti LuPone, a beloved Broadway titan who has won two Tony Awards and has been performing in previews for a revival of “Company.” Her take on this was one of shock and gratitude that the theaters were closed for the health of all involved. 

coronavirusWhile this drastic move will most assuredly costs millions to the industry and potentially cause the collapse of some shows and/or theaters, the move was one that was necessary not only due to the new restrictions enacted by Governor Cuomo, but also for the common sense reason of maintaining safe distance between theatergoers and actors/crew members. 

Regardless of the duration of the closings and how many theater companies will fare in the end, one thing is for certain – theater will survive this test. Patrons will need an outlet, a laugh, or to shed a tear when this virus has seen its course. While the show “can not go on” as planned right now, they will be back. 

 

Are you looking forward to scoring tickets to a Broadway musical this spring? Well, you’re not alone in that aspiration. Millions of theatergoers will flood New York City and other major hubs hoping to catch their favorite musical on stage. 

This year should prove to be a banner year for musicals along the “Great White Way.” Some shows that are successfully running will still be a big draw for tourists and NYC visitors. Shows like Wicked, Hamilton, Dear Evan Hanson, and Mean Girls will continue to shine. Some musical newcomers and revivals may shock us all with the scenery, costumes, and amazing musical scores. 

theater

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? 

This revival of Edward Albee’s classic drama will star Rupert Everett, Russell Tovey, Patsy Ferran, and two-time Tony winner Laurie Metcalf, marking her fifth consecutive season on Broadway. This show will begin at the Booth Theater at the beginning of March with an official opening night slated for April 9th. 

Playbill explains that this musical explores the complexities of a marriage when, “a college professor and his wife invite a younger academic and his wife over for drinks after a late-night party, leading to an evening of sadistic games, attempted seductions and shattering revelations.”  

Mrs. Doubtfire 

Based on the movie by the same name, this musical follows the story of a recently divorced, out-of-work actor, who will do just about anything for the chance to spend some time with his children. He disguises himself as a nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire, whose persona begins to take on a life of its own. 

The show is packed with all the hilarity you can expect from a cross-dressing, Scottish nanny who learns more than he bargained about his children and himself. 

Directed by Jerry Zaks, the musical starts performances March 9 at the Stephen Sondheim Theatre. The official opening night is slated for April 5th. 

theater

Plaza Suite 

This marriage comedy starring real-life husband and wife Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, follows the story of three couples, all played by Broderick and Parker. This revival of the Neil Simon original follows a long, married couple seemingly doomed for a break up, high school sweethearts, and a mother and father of a bride who are ready to celebrate their daughter’s wedding, if only they could get her out of the bathroom. 

It’s been 20 long years since Parker and Broderick have been on stage together. Directed by John Benjamin Hickey, the play starts its limited run at the Hudson Theatre March 13 ahead of an April 13 opening.

What shows are you looking forward to this spring? Drop us a line in the comments to check out our Facebook page for more spring shows. 

 

Hamilton, Mama Mia, Kinky Boots, and Wicked are just a few of the popular Broadway musicals that have graced the stage along the “Great White Way” in the last few years. These musicals are more than just a combination of fantastic dancing, singing, and plot lines. They have hidden lessons that make theatergoers think about long after they have left the hall. Here are a few of the hidden, yet important, lessons that musicals are teaching audiences. 

stage

Wicked

The life of the wicked witch of the west as told in the musical Wicked, is filled with life lessons about friendships. The strongest message is that friendships are truly everything in life. The well-developed characters explain that some friendships run so deep that they imprint upon you and can change your life for the better. The musical also shows through actions that even though friends may critique one another, the best of friends will always be your biggest fans and most staunch supporters in life. 

Another important life lesson that we could all use a reminder about is the idea that looks are not everything. Take for example the relationship between Glinda and Elphaba. Glinda isn’t keen on Elphaba at the start of the story because she was very obviously green, and Glinda’s sparkly, pink and girly sense of style really wasn’t Elphie’s cup of tea either. They eventually discover that it’s what’s inside that counts. 

These lovely life lessons are paired with incredible music, amazing scenery, and costumes that help promote it to the level of being one of the most popular musicals of the west end. 

Hamilton

Hamilton 

If you are lucky enough to score tickets to the famed Hamilton, then you will be delighted with life lessons from the moment the curtain goes up until it goes down at the end of the night. Hamilton tells the story of forgotten American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and his ascent out of poverty and to power against the backdrop of the American War of Independence.

There are so many little life lessons as well as grand sweeping ones in this musical that it’s hard to know where to start. Overall, the inspirational message to audiences is that now is the time to take your shot no matter what the risks. You have but one life so take your chance and make it happen for yourself. 

Believe it or not, fans of this particular musical have written fan sites on what they learned from this production, the characters, and the public’s reaction to it. Here’s just a quick overview of what some fans say are the biggest takeaways to Hamilton. 

  • Excuses are a waste of time in life.
  • You are responsible for your own education.
  • Believe in yourself, before you expect other people to believe in you.
  • Pride can literally kill you. Be humble to be truly brilliant.
  • Sacrifice leads to greatness. 

Dear Evan Hanson 

Evan Hansen is the story of a young man who suffers from severe social anxiety. On the first day of senior year, he writes himself a letter as per his therapist’s recommendation. This awkward teenager craves communication and connection with others. 

He, unfortunately, assists with promoting a huge lie that hurts many people. Evan must come to the very tough realization that he needs to accept himself for who he is before others will do the same. He sings the message powerfully: “All I ever do is run so how do I step in, step into the sun?” While the lesson is one our younger selves could have benefited from, even adults can learn something about loving themselves from this hit musical. 

What hidden messages does your favorite musical promote? Drop us a line in the comments or on our Facebook page. 

 

There’s really no better place to find a romantic story, love triangle, or a story of unrequited love than on Broadway. Some of our favorite backdrops here at Charles H. Stewart are those that involve love stories. Check out our list of the best love stories that made it to the big stage. 

Phantom of the Opera 

Okay, okay, this love story is more of a love obsession between the masked man and soprano opera singer, Christine. However, this show has a thirty year history of making the audiences fall in love all over again. Legendary songs like “Music of the Night” and “All I Ask of You,” can capture the audience each-and-every-time. We rank this musical as one of our favorite love stories that grace the “Great White Way.” 

Phantom of the Opera

Waitress 

This complicated love story stars Jenna, a genius pie-making waitress who is in an abusive marriage, pregnant, and stuck in a small town. While the story does focus on her growing romance with the town’s new doctor, it is also a story of Jenna’s growth as a person. With music from the fabulous Sara Bareilles including, “You Matter to Me,” “Love Song,” and  “Brave,” this show is a true hit. 

Mama Mia! 

For those Abba lovers, this musical, set on a Greek Isle is all about finding which of the three former lovers is the true father to Donna Sheridan’s daughter.  The sequel, Here We Go Again is equally as silly as the original Mama Mia but ridiculously fun to be a part of even as an audience member. 

Scene from Mama Mia

Legally Blonde 

Follow the zany story of Elle Woods who has been dumped by her college beau, when she really thought a marriage proposal was definitely forthcoming. Elle’s simple plan, that plays out on stage, is to prove to her ex-boyfriend that she is not too cheerful, enthusiastic, or…blonde, for lack of a better way to put it. She enrolls at Harvard Law School and proves to herself that she is more than just her looks. Her budding romance with Emmett, the teacher’s aid, is simply adorable. 

Moulin Rouge! The Musical

Last but not least, we have Moulin Rouge, a musical that is made up almost completely of pop hits from the past two decades. Moulin Rouge is a jukebox romantic comedy based on the hit 2001 Baz Luhrman film of the same name. The story follows the epic, doomed love affair of Christian, a penniless writer, and Satine, a performer at the Parisian nightclub, Moulin Rouge. Christian falls hard for Satine the second he sees her, and a few songs later, he’s won her over. Unfortunately, a wealthy patron of the nightclub also has an interest in her. His money is the only thing keeping the club open. 

What is your favorite Broadway love story? We love so many but would love to hear about yours! Drop us a line in the comments or on our Facebook page. 

 

If you are a theater lover then you probably have a mental list of your favorite shows that includes when you saw them, and where. Shows can stay with us for a long time and leave a lasting impression on our lives. But what are those shows, especially the performances that lasted the longest on Broadway? 

In order to make it to Broadway, a show must prove itself. There is no “one” surefire way to make it to the Great White Way, but many start off as Off-Broadway productions, in Summer Theaters, or as part of a Workshop. Once a show makes it on to the famed street, there is no guarantee that it will last. That’s why it is amazing the number of shows that have stood the test of time in Broadway Theaters. 

Broadway theaterPhantom of the Opera 

One of our favorite shows that has lasted over two decades is Phantom of the Opera. It has run for well over twelve thousand shows. The classic tale that was first a novel by Gaston Leroux is also known for the genius songwriting of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Phantom is still running and continues to entertain countless New York residents and visitors and will for years to come.

Chicago 

This show has been trying to move into the number one spot held by Phantom for years. First opening at the 46th Street Theatre, the first Broadway production of Chicago opened in June of 1975. It has since seen a revival which took place in 1996. It opened at the Richard Rodgers Theatre, and this production instantly received much more critical acclaim than the original production. Currently, Chicago’s revival holds the title of longest running revival on Broadway. 

Chicago Musical

The Lion King 

This show first made its appearance in Minneapolis in the fall of 1997 at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The Disney adaptation from the film has since moved to NYC and sits on the list of highest-grossing at the box office. The combination of Elton John’s musical hits and the original costume designs make this one of the longest running shows at 7,883 performances and counting. 

Cats 

This feline-centered performance once held the spot as London’s longest-running musical until Les Misérables took its place in 2006. Cats has actually seen a revival, just like other popular shows that have made their way back to the stage. The original production saw 6,138 shows over the course of 18 years and closed in 2000. Recently the musical has seen a massive revival that is still running today and continues to break records at the box office, recently pulling in more than a million dollars in just a week.

What is your favorite long-running Broadway musical? We love so many but would love to hear about yours! Drop us a line in the comments or on our Facebook page. 

 

Broadway has a long list of star-studded shows that have lasted years. Some of the longest running Broadway shows include the likes of Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Chicago the Musical, The Lion King, and Les Misérables. Unfortunately, at the other end of the success spectrum are the theater shows that were ultimate flops. What makes a show a flop and what are some of the flops we love to still talk about? 

Sometimes even shows that seem destined for accolades end up closing early or becoming infamous for being a Broadway disaster. Why one show soars and others flops depends on quite a few elements. However, as Theater Nerds so aptly puts it, “No matter how awesome the cast or how beautiful the score, there’s nothing for some shows to do but join a legendary list of Broadway’s worst-selling shows.”

Then there are the shows that are completely panned by critics but beloved by audiences. For example, the show You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown about the much loved “Peanuts” gang actually premiered in 1971. While high school and middle school drama productions still adore this musical to this day, it only saw the stage for 32 performances. It goes to show that the venue and target audience can play sharply into the success of any production. 

Bonnie and Clyde is yet another Broadway show that was only on Broadway for three months, lasting a measly 36 performances. This number and shortened run would categorize it as a Broadway flop, but there is still a cult following for this show. Most critics did report that while the show was short-lived, the score was amazing and the main performers has vocal aptitude that should have raised this show to success. 

So, these two examples of “flops” beg the question, what causes a show that may have a following to flop? For many shows that have a limited run there could be a multitude of reasons for the show’s demise. For some the acting, script, financial backing, or score was subpar, while for others the subject matter was not met with open arms by the American public. For a show to be successful, there needs to be emotion, passion, or content that strikes a nerve with the audience. 

Take the ultimate Broadway hit Hamilton. Not only does the acting, score, and theme resonate with the audience, but it comes at a time when Americans are looking to their past to find a path into the political decisions of the future. The kismet, therefore was amazing timing for this extremely successful Broadway show. 

For more “flops” whether they deserve the title or not, check out this article on the list of musicals and how long they lit the marquee on Broadway. 

 

Part of pulling off a great show is creating the right mood on the stage. Theatergoers expect a story that includes emotion. Giving them that requires the right backdrop, lighting, and acting. Let’s take a closer look at how to create the mood you want on stage using these three components for your next play or musical. 

Backdrops 

When an audience first sees the stage, they expect to be transported into the world being portrayed in the scene on stage. Whether you are trying to paint the image of a Dickens village in England, or a winterscape in New England, a backdrop can make all the difference. Our Backdrops By Charles H. Stewart come in a variety of options from the old Broadway favorites to the abstract. We have hundreds of backdrops to choose from that can help your production set the appropriate mood for the audience. Check out our wide assortment of backdrops organized by category or by show. If you don’t see one that creates the setting and mood you are going for, we can custom make a backdrop to meet your specifications. 

Lighting 

Obviously, in conjunction with the backdrops, the lighting plays a key role in creating the right mood on stage. The angle, color, and brilliance of the lighting can determine the mood the performers are trying to portray. For example, lighter colors to convey day and darker tones for dusk.

Most stage lighting professionals and designers focus on five main positions to create the desired mood. The main lighting areas include: front, back, side, down, and high side lighting. Each choice casts a different view of what is happening on stage. In some instances the lighting can look dark and foreboding, while other times the lighting can create a light, happy tone. 

Acting 

Acting is clearly a central component to the performance and a key influencing element to how gratifying and atmospheric the drama is. Directors claim that the tone the actors on stage create is in conjunction with the lighting, sound, and backdrops. It all comes together to set a mood in one unified way so that audience members are pulled into the story and the mood is prevalent throughout the theater. 

Check out our backdrops online and on our Facebook page for your next production. No matter the mood, we can help you set the tone for your performance.