Theater lovers see free Broadway performances in Times Square

Broadway Hits Take Times Square By Storm Despite Rainy Weather

Despite the rain, theater lovers flocked to Times Square on Sunday to enjoy a series of free performances from Broadway hits as part of the city’s 400th-anniversary celebrations. The event took place at Duffy Square, located at Broadway and Seventh Avenue, where fans gathered to watch musical numbers from nearly two dozen popular shows, including “Wicked,” “Mamma Mia!,” “The Book of Mormon,” and “Chicago.”

The casts from 23 shows participated in the event, with many actors walking over from their theaters to perform and then returning to prepare for Sunday matinees. The crowd consisted of both dedicated theater enthusiasts who traveled specifically for the event and tourists who stumbled upon the spectacle and were pleasantly surprised.

One visitor, Terry Bush, a 47-year-old mom from Milwaukee, shared her excitement about experiencing Broadway in the heart of Times Square. She mentioned that while their original plan was to see “The Lion King” during their trip, the unexpected opportunity to witness multiple performances live was a pleasant surprise.

For some attendees, the allure of free performances was the main draw. Tamara K., a 19-year-old NYU student, expressed her love for Broadway but mentioned the high cost of tickets as a barrier. She highlighted the thrill of watching Christopher Jackson perform, known for his role in “Hamilton,” and expressed her desire to catch his latest show, “Hell’s Kitchen,” in the future.

The event was part of Mayor Eric Adams’ “Founded by NYC” program, a year-long celebration commemorating the city’s founding 400 years ago. Broadway League President Jason Laks emphasized the significance of Times Square as the perfect location to honor Broadway’s legacy.

Despite the rainy weather, attendees were undeterred in their enthusiasm for the performances. One city student who relocated to New York to be closer to Broadway shared their gratitude for events like these, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

Overall, the Broadway showcase in Times Square served as a testament to the enduring charm and cultural significance of the Great White Way, drawing in crowds of diverse backgrounds united in their love for the performing arts.