Student Blog: Returning to Broadway

Broadway is back! During my fall break, I had the opportunity to see Moulin Rouge! The Musical for the second time, and it was just as incredible as the first time I saw it in previews. The production deserved all 10 Tony Awards that it received, and I have no doubt in my mind that it will run for many years to come. Natalie Mendoza was a perfect choice as the next person to take on the role of Satine, and the new ensemble members and swings fit right in. I am already looking for tickets to see this musical a third time. However, the experience of seeing the show was slightly different: the audience was all masked! Not only did I feel safe watching the performance, but I also knew that everyone onstage was protected thanks to all the audience members committing to wearing masks and showing proof of vaccination.

If you are hesitant to return to Broadway to see another production, do not fear! The theatre staff are all taking many precautions and it is not difficult to abide by these precautions. Getting into the theatre is just as quick as before, there is solely the added element of showing proof of vaccination and ID. Once you're inside the theatre, you simply must wear your mask at all times unless actively eating or drinking. Yes, your favorite overpriced drinks, snacks, and souvenir cups are all back! Additionally, before the show, during intermission, and after the show, ushers hold signs that remind people to wear their masks, and the ushers are not afraid to call anyone out for not following the rules. Being a good audience member during the Broadway reopening is simple: just wear your mask!

Another element of the experience that differed was the lack of stagedooring. While I value the decision to not have actors interact with audience members for their safety since that is much more important than signing playbills, I wish there could be another way for audience members to get legal pictures or signatures. I am thankful that I got to stagedoor Moulin Rouge during previews, but I am disappointed for the fans who tried to stagedoor a week ago. Perhaps all Broadway shows could look into selling autographed playbills and posters like when they are sold for BCEFA. Alternatively, a free digital autographed program could be released each night with the signatures of the cast members who performed that night. This could be a fun promotional idea for all Broadway shows if the producers and marketing teams look into using fan art or alternative playbill covers every night for the digital autographed playbill.

Above all, the Broadway experience is just as magical as before even with mask mandates and the lack of stagedooring. It is exciting to see shows slowly re-opening and some shows opening for the first time. I am sure there are surprises in store for all of us as the season progresses, and I cannot wait to return to Broadway to see another show!

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