Saturday, September 19, 2009

Broadway's Finest Come Together for Back2Broadway Event

The ladies of "Jersey Boys" on stage at Broadway on Broadway.
Photo by: Brooke Niemeyer
By: BROOKE NIEMEYER

MANHATTAN-- Theater students dream of it. Tourists flock to it. Culture junkies obsess over it. Nothing in the world compares to it.

Broadway.

Yesterday was a day for musical enthusiasts to catch a glimpse of Broadway's finest, free of charge. New York City Mayor, Michael R. Bloomberg, The Broadway League, Times Square Alliance, and NYC & Company kicked off the 2009 - 2010 Broadway season with their annual free public outdoor concert in Times Square, entitled Broadway on Broadway. The popularity of the shows on Broadway has continued to rise year after year.

"Broadway has had more hits than Derek Jeter," Mayor Bloomberg told the crowd.

September is Back2Broadway month, which showcases the new season with free events, like Broadway on Broadway, and also Broadway Open Call Karaoke and Kids Night on Broadway. The promotions also include offers for deals on ticket and dining prices throughout the month, along with many other activities.

Spectators filled Broadway from 43rd to 47th Streets to see the concert. According to The Broadway League, Broadway had one of its best years ever last year, with record ticket sales and the highest number of new show openings in more than 25 years.

"This season looks to be another success," Bloomberg said.

The show began at 11:30 a.m. and ran for about two hours. Michael McKean, who is starring in the upcoming Broadway play "Superior Donuts," hosted the event. John Stamos, who is starring in "Bye Bye Birdie" also spoke to the crowd.

"It was my third time coming to this," said Susan Marks, 54, of Chicago. "Every year it gets better."

Attendees were entertained by performances from over 20 musics, ranging from long-running shows like "The Phantom of the Opera" to the new shows of the season, including "Next to Never," "Fela!" and "Memphis."

One of the main goals of the event was to give a glimpse of the new shows expected to begin by the end of the year.

"I come back and see this so I know which plays look good to go see," said Marks. "I've already made my list."

Another goal of Back2Broadway month is to promote entertainment venues in downtown Manhattan and diversify New York City's economy.

"There are so many restaurants, clubs, and shows that benefit from this [event]," said Jim Glaub, 30, of Chelsea.

After the confetti had fallen and the last musical number was finished, Glaub concluded that Broadway on Broadway 2009 was a success.

"People seem excited about Broadway," he said. "That's what it's all about."

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