Agreed. This fall I was fortunate to see, among other satisfying shows, Pass Over, Dana H, Trouble in Mind, Girl from the North Country, all complicated theater pieces of the moment yet having roots in the art form that transcend time, or one season's artistic ambitions. I paid 1/3 of the box office price for all three of the shows, sat in wonderful seats, and felt the psychological and spiritual restoration I craved during the pandemic.
Broadway has always been the apex of a niche industry. It charges what traffic will allow. But its rangy offerings this sad/exhilarating season of shaky re-launch also confirm that it's a place that nurtures, challenges, honors. I didn't even put the Jackman Music Man or Six on my radar, but joyously embraced 8 experiences this past autumn. The glass will always be half full if you look beyond media-anointed brands and designated "events." I defend Broadway often for these reasons, but never more vigorously than in 2021. I walked out of Dana H, looked up and said "That was in the Lyceum Theater, not a 99 seat house on 42nd street. Attention must be paid." I stand by that statement. |
