According to the Broadway League, over the past few years, Broadway performances were attended by more than 14 million people. That attendance resulted in nearly 2 million dollars in revenue per season. If you have ever been lucky enough to attend Broadway shows, then you know the magical feeling of showtime.
And while Broadway continues to put on new performances, let’s for a brief moment, revisit the shows and stars of a time gone by. Here are some of the popular shows and Broadway actors you may recognize from the past.
These performances once wowed crowds and put actors and singers on the map. Read on to rediscover the best of Broadway theatre.
Grease
Does this world-renowned Broadway musical need an introduction or explanation? Grease graced Broadway’s stage for 49 years!
Grease opened on Broadway on February 14 in 1972. The musical had two revivals over its run on Manhattan’s famous stage. While many know the storyline from the equally famous movie version, Grease on Broadway featured the story of summer lovers Sandy and Danny.
The performance didn’t leave out their star-studded friends and famous stars like Adrienne Barbeau. Grease on Broadway was a record at the time, with nearly 4,000 performances.
Miss Saigon
Miss Saigon was on Broadway from 1991 to 2001. Madame Butterly inspired the ten-year-long play.
Miss Saigon focuses on a love story between a young Vietnamese girl, played by Lea Salonga, and an American soldier. The Broadway play won three Tony Awards.
Fiddler on the Roof
Fiddler on the Roof was a classic Broadway production that attracted theatre-goers of all ages and backgrounds. The musical remained on Broadway for nearly 10 years and had more than 3,000 stage performances.
Fiddler on the Roof features the challenging life of a Jewish peasant and struggles in his village. He must marry off his daughters and find them a better life.
The hard times were offset by colorful singing, dance routines, and stellar acting across the Broadway stage. Some of the big star names you may recognize include Josh Groban, Bette Middler, and Sally Struthers.
Jersey Boys
Jersey Boys won four Tony Awards for Best Musical. The story of New Jersey locals Franki Valli and the Four Seasons band won the hearts of many Broadway attendees over more than 10 years. Some of the star-studded cast included Jonathan Cable, Aaron De Jesus, and John Rochette.
Beauty and The Beast
Beauty and The Beast was a Disney performance that took Broadway by storm for more than a decade. Some of the original stars include Susan Egan who played Belle and Terrence Mann as The Beast. The tale of a beautiful young Belle who falls for The Beast not for looks, but for his heart, captured thousands of audience members.
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These Past Broadway Shows Won’t Be Forgotten
Many of these Broadway Shows may have long left the stage, but the memories, stars, and storylines won’t be forgotten. Broadway classics like Grease and Fiddler on The Roof included stellar stars and interesting storylines. While standout performers like Lea Salonga in Miss Saigon will remain in Broadway’s memory forever.And, Jersey Boys and Beauty and The Beast presented audiences with the fun and feel-good factor. If you found this information interesting, check out our other entertainment stories.