Broadway’s current season exhibits a fascinating juxtaposition of hit musicals and struggling productions, revealing the volatile nature of this iconic theater district. As we delve into the financial performance of recent shows, it is clear that both audience reception and economic viability are often intertwined, impacting the fates of these productions.
The Phenomenal Rise of “Gypsy”
Among the highlights of Broadway this season is the much-anticipated revival of “Gypsy,” featuring the extraordinary Audra McDonald. The production enjoyed a staggering opening week, achieving a remarkable gross of $770,349 across just three performances, which showcases its immediate resonance with audiences. With an impressive average ticket price hovering around $160.19, it is no surprise that the show filled 100.8% of the Majestic Theatre’s seating capacity during the week ending on November 24. Directed by George C. Wolfe, this revival of the classic composition from Arthur Laurents, Jule Styne, and Stephen Sondheim is poised to enjoy sustained success, especially with its official opening scheduled for December 19.
Contrasting Fortunes: “Tammy Faye” and “Left On Tenth”
In stark contrast to the triumph of “Gypsy,” the musical “Tammy Faye,” which explores the life of televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker, found itself struggling critically and financially. With only $317,913 in ticket sales shortly after its opening on November 14, the production announced a closing notice by December 8, having filled a mere 41% of its seats at the Palace Theatre. This disappointment underscores the unpredictable nature of Broadway, where even a well-known figure from pop culture cannot guarantee box office success.
Similarly, “Left On Tenth,” a romantic comedy penned by Delia Ephron and featuring notable actors Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher, faced its own challenges. Earning only $456,322 and filling 51% of seats at the James Earl Jones Theatre, it illustrates how even established names are not a surefire recipe for success, especially in a saturated market.
Breakout Productions: “Death Becomes Her” and “Elf”
Turning our attention to productions that have garnered overwhelming support, “Death Becomes Her” stands out, having generated $1,059,374 in its opening run at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. Starring Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard, this production has thrilled audiences to the point of achieving 97% capacity, highlighting the effectiveness of strong performances and a compelling narrative in drawing crowds.
Further adding to Broadway’s holiday offerings is “Elf,” an adaptation of the beloved 2003 film. The musical features Grey Henson in the title role, boasting impressive earnings of $1,139,534 and a capacity fill of 95% at the Marquis. Such successes exemplify how the mix of nostalgia and festive spirit can entice audience engagement during the holiday season.
Unveiling new productions, “Swept Away,” backed by the Avett Brothers, managed a respectable gross of $409,355 though with only 72% seating capacity at the Longacre. Meanwhile, “Maybe Happy Ending” performed slightly better at the Belasco, achieving gross sales of $591,413 and 79% capacity. These figures indicate potential for growth and the need for strategic marketing to drive ticket sales as the season progresses.
In the vein of new launches, the engaging holiday comedy “Cult of Love,” featuring prominent actors like Zachary Quinto and Shailene Woodley, began previews and grossed $223,306 over seven performances, filling 84% of seats. Such plays often rely on the efficacy of word-of-mouth and critical acclaim to weather the initial weeks after opening.
Overall, Broadway’s total gross for the week stands at an impressive $37,349,024—a 6% increase from the prior week and an 8% year-on-year rise. With 39 shows in performance, audiences totaled 307,431, revealing a significant uptick in attendance by 34% compared to the same time last year.
As Broadway enters the heart of the 2024-25 season, its cumulative gross has reached $860,393,650, marking a 12% increase over the previous year, with attendance figures also reflecting similar growth. The industry clearly thrives on its ability to adapt and attract audiences, despite the occasional misstep; Broadway remains a significant cultural and economic force, celebrated for its constant evolution and reinvention.