NY Post theatre columnist Michael Riedel made an appearance last night at the “Curran Under Construction” series at the Curran Theater. He spent about an hour in conversation with author Kevin Sessums, talking primarily about the history of Broadway, focusing on the business part of show business, especially during the 70s and 80s. It was during this era, Riedel posits, that Broadway not only turned itself around, but helped with the revival of New York, with great shows (most especially “A Chorus Line”) giving audiences a reason to come to midtown at a time when the Times Square neighborhood was no place for innocent tourists and theatergoers.
Contrary to his image, Riedel was quite pleasant during the conversation, and the audience seemed to eat up his recollections of the genesis of the Shubert Organization, its rise, fall and rebirth.
His recollection of the genesis of “Equus” was fascinating. According to Riedel, it was this production that began the inflation of Broadway ticket prices. When Richard Burton replaced Tony Perkins in the show, the Shuberts raised ticket prices from $10 to $15. When Burton left, some in the Shubert Organization apparently wanted to reduce the prices since the big star was no longer appearing. But Gerald Schoenfeld felt the audiences and grow used to paying the higher price and would continue to do so. Riedle and Sessums also enjoyed throwing some shade on director John Dexter, including his casting couch maneuvers.
Riedel took a few questions from the audience at the end of the evening. Free copies of his new book, “Razzle Dazzle: The Battle for Broadway” were given away to all who attended, and Riedel stuck around for a book signing/meet and greet.
The event was recorded on video, and I imagine will be available at some time in the future.
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