Broadway is not just the powerhouse of American entertainment – it is also a global icon. For over two centuries, this institution comprised of New York-based theatres has created a community for those who share a passion for music, drama, and everything in between. However, Broadway is much more than just an infatuation for aspiring theatre kids, casual musical-goers, and bold critics. Known as the “Mogul of Entertainment,” it reflects the current state of society and, conversely, shapes cultural trends.
As the best place for triple-threat-talents to rise to prominence, Broadway has introduced a plethora of artists that have gone on to become stars: Ariana Grande, Morgan Freeman, Viola Davis among others, all took roles on the stage which opened hundreds of doors and helped them establish successful careers. Interestingly, there are also artists who appeared in Broadway shows much later in their careers, mainly as an attempt to reestablish themselves artistically. Many who thought Nicole Scherzinger’s career would come to an end after her days on the X Factor and the Masked Singer, were in for a shock after she was cast to headline the second Broadway revival of Sunset Boulevard as Norma Desmond. Since then, Scherzinger has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for her role as a faded star who seizes her opportunity to return to the big screen. Critics agree that she has embodied the spirit of Norma Desmond with flying colours.
Aside from starting and reviving careers, Broadway productions continue to be at the heart of controversy, especially when it comes to behind-the-scenes feuds. A prime example of such a fiercely outspoken Broadway icon is none other than Patti LuPone. A powerhouse, LuPone has graced the stage since the 1970s and continues to to sell out theatres in every performance she appears in. However, the actress has stirred up her fair share of controversial moments. If a hypothetical musical called “Feud” existed, full of nasty comments, backstabbing, and the destruction of dressing rooms, its stars would be none other than Patti LuPone and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Funnily enough, this feud appeared just as the actress was supposed to portray Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard. LuPone later learned that she had been fired and replaced by Lloyd Webber on the basis that “she could not hit her notes.” So what did Patti do? She successfully sued him for a million dollars. And with it she built a pool in her backyard – “The Andrew Lloyd Webber Memorial Pool.” An act of subtle pettiness, a proper response to a breach of contract, and one of her many displays of “divaness,” establishing LuPone as an icon.
Having covered the two main ways Broadway can change lives for individual performers, it is essential to ask what Broadway has done for the broader public. Aside from obviously putting on plays and musicals, Broadway has acted as a mirror of society – its razzle dazzle has seamlessly influenced the trends and discussions that dominate our culture. In the same way, what has become sensational in everyday life is already in the works of becoming a musical. Take, for instance, the one and only Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda. A revolutionary reimagination of the events leading up to the American War of Independence, Hamilton has been described as the best musical of the twenty-first century for its diverse casting and unique musical characteristics. The cultural impact of the musical has reached far beyond the entertainment industry: KQED News reported a staggering rise in interest towards this period of history. Even more, it inspired Jack Lew to keep Alexander Hamilton’s face on the ten-dollar bill after an initial proposal for his replacement.
Everything and everyone associated with Broadway has been given the best chance to achieve stellar success. The mere opportunity to be included in a production of such a level has inspired thousands of people to pursue the dramatic arts despite a saddening decrease in the popularity of stage performances. Broadway show can make or break a career, allowing for classical productions and adaptations beyond imagination (see Wicked in November, the 2002 adaptation of Chicago, and the 2021 adaptation of West Side Story), as well as putting in the spotlight new and exciting names (see In the Heights by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen, and Hadestown by Anais Mitchell among others).
All of this is not to say that Broadway is utopia; it is far from that. As important as it is to acknowledge its immense impact, it is also critical to portray it in an objective tone—Broadway is not all glitz and glamour for the many people involved in it. With the extensive training from top drama schools such as Juilliard and countless years of preparation and audition just to land a small role, it can be argued that the monetary cost and the stamina required far exceed the usual levels. However, what remains constant and true is that no matter how much you know or do not know about it, how much you like it or hate it, there is no denying Broadway has been a puppeteer of modern culture and society.
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