Broadway Secrets They Don't Want You to Know!
Broadway Secrets They Don't Want You to Know!
Beyond the dazzling lights and stellar performances, Broadway has its share of secrets and intriguing tales. Let's uncover some lesser-known Broadway facts that they don't want you to know!
1. Ghost Lights
Every theater on Broadway has a "ghost light" – a single bulb on a stand left on stage when the theater is dark. Some say it's for safety, but others argue it's to appease any resident ghosts!
2. The Casting Couch is Not a Myth
Unfortunately, the casting couch is not a myth. Some Broadway aspirants have faced the grim reality of this behind-the-scenes exploit. However, recent movements like #MeToo have empowered victims to speak out and demand change.
3. Show Changes Mid-Run
Believe it or not, shows can change drastically during their run. From tweaking scripts to swapping songs, if you've watched a show early in its run, chances are, you saw a slightly different version than what others might see later.
4. Understudies Often Step In
Star performers don't always take the stage. Sometimes, understudies step in to perform, and most of the time, the audience wouldn't know unless they read the playbill carefully.
5. Most Shows Don't Break Even
Producing a Broadway show is an expensive gamble. In fact, about 75% of Broadway shows fail to break even, let alone make a profit. It's the occasional big hit that keeps the industry afloat!
These hidden truths pull back the curtain on the world of Broadway, revealing a more nuanced picture of this glimmering universe. Yet, they also underscore the magic and the passion that keep the Broadway lights shining brightly, night after night.