Broadway is a vibrant tapestry of talent, storytelling, and creativity, and last week was no exception as the theatre district saw a slew of remarkable performances bidding adieu. With the curtain dropping on the critically acclaimed revival of *Our Town*, along with the impending departures of lead actors from *Oh, Mary!* and *The Great Gatsby*, Broadway audiences were treated to a heartwarming final send-off for some of 2023’s marquee shows.
The illustrious revival of *Our Town*, penned by the renowned playwright Thornton Wilder, experienced a triumphant final week at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. Starring a stellar cast that included Jim Parsons, Katie Holmes, Ephraim Sykes, and Zoey Deutch, the production not only captivated audiences but also achieved its highest weekly gross since its debut last fall, raking in an impressive $1,084,024. This notable increase of $128,404 from the previous week reflects the show’s resounding appeal, drawing in enthusiastic crowds with over 95% of seats filled. The palpable emotion during the closing performances underscored why *Our Town* remains a timeless piece in American theatre.
In tandem with *Our Town*’s conclusion, *Oh, Mary!* also experienced a historic farewell with Cole Escola, the star and creative force behind the production, delivering powerful performances in the role of Mary Todd Lincoln one last time. The show’s run is testament to its magnetic charm, evidenced by its ongoing sell-out crowds. That week, *Oh, Mary!* grossed a remarkable $1,253,871, a fitting tribute to the talented cast and creative team who brought the beloved comedy to life. Yet, as Escola concluded their journey, the show prepared for a seamless transition with the arrival of Betty Gilpin, scheduled to step into the lead role for the next eight weeks—a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of Broadway.
Saying Goodbye to *The Great Gatsby*
Meanwhile, the enchanting world of *The Great Gatsby* also witnessed a bittersweet exchange as Jeremy Jordan took his final bow in the titular role. The show enjoyed a substantial gross of $1,891,769 during his last week, filling around 95% of its capacity, indicative of the show’s broad resonance with audiences. As Ryan McCartan prepares to take over, the anticipation of fresh interpretations of Fitzgerald’s iconic narrative lingers in the air. Notably, Eva Noblezada, who originally charmed audiences as Daisy, will bring her own tenure to a close soon, paving the way for Sarah Hyland to infuse her distinct energy in the role.
Broadway’s landscape continues to thrive with imposing earnings across various productions. *Wicked* remains a powerhouse, topping the earnings chart at $2,602,661, followed closely by various beloved titles such as *Gypsy* and *Hamilton*, which both garnered $1.9M. The excitement surrounding other productions like **& Juliet* and *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* further solidifies the enchanting allure of Broadway, where the intersection of talent and buzz results in financial success.
Moreover, shows like *All In: Comedy About Love* embraced creative diversity with a rotating cast featuring big names such as Lin-Manuel Miranda and Andrew Rannells. This innovative approach to casting not only enhances the production’s appeal but also contributes to broadening the audience base, ensuring that each performance draws a fresh array of theatergoers.
Reflecting on the week’s financials reveals a vibrant Broadway scene that grossed a commendable total of $33,372,166, marking a 4% increase from the prior week and demonstrating robust growth compared to last year. With a consistent attendance of 250,806, the numbers highlight Broadway’s resilience and ongoing ability to invigorate audiences, even as seasons change.
As the 35th week of the 2024-25 season unfolds, the cumulative earnings have reached an impressive $1.203 billion, along with a substantial increase in total attendance compared to the previous year. All signs point to a bright future for Broadway, as the blend of storied classics and innovative new works continues to draw crowds and cultivate a passionate theater community.
The dynamic atmosphere of Broadway, with its ongoing evolution and enduring classics, celebrates both farewells and fresh beginnings. With so many delightful spectacles adorning the stages, the coming weeks promise continued excitement for theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.