Broadway Shows

New York City's Broadway theater district is considered by many to be the epitome of world-class stage talent and entertainment. Broadway shows in New York have included famous productions over the years such as Phantom of the Opera (the longest-running Broadway production), Cats, and A Chorus Line to name just a scant few.

Broadway is a generic term that has grown to encompass more than just Broadway Street in New York City. It is an entire area on and adjacent to Broadway Street in midtown Manhattan, in and around Times Square, and includes several theaters of varying sizes and popularity. Off Broadway shows and even Off-Off Broadway shows refer to the smaller productions located on these adjacent streets.

New York City Broadway shows got their start in 1882, and since then have attracted international recognition and stage names such as Irving Berlin, Julie Andrews, and Jackie Gleason. The Annual Tony Awards in June is a gala event that recognizes all Broadway Theater production effort, and is presented by the League of American Theatres and Producers and the American Theatre Wing.

Broadway shows in New York may run for several weeks, months even, and Broadway musicals tend to run the longest. New York City Broadway shows are located in several conveniently located theaters in the Manhattan area, and are close to hotels, shopping, and other major New York City attractions. Off Broadway shows are often frequented by theatergoers who prefer a slightly smaller, more intimate setting, and account for a vital portion of New York City Broadway shows.

Seeing a Broadway show is one of the most popular New York tourist activities and accounts for a multi-billion dollar annual business. In an effort to make seeing New York City Broadway shows more affordable for everyone, same-day tickets are sold for several Broadway and Off Broadway shows, and many Broadway theaters also offer special student rates or standing-room tickets to help ensure that more people have the opportunity to see Broadway shows.

Experience firsthand the excitement of one or more 2012 Broadway shows in New York during your stay, and see the theater that has been called, along with London's West End Theatre, the highest level of English theater.