Heather Headley and the cast of “The Color Purple.” | JEREMY DANIEL/ COURTESY: THE BROADWAY LEAGUE
BY SAM OGLESBY | Have you ever fantasized about seeing all the shows on Broadway, knowing full well you don’t have the time, never mind the money to realize that dream? Well, I was lucky enough to come close – all in one afternoon.
On June 3, I saw “Stars in the Alley,” the absolutely free show that takes place every year in the heart of Times Square showcasing the best of Broadway’s fare in an intimate setting tucked away in Shubert Alley, located west of Seventh Avenue between 44th and 45th Streets.
The cast of “Fun Home.” | JEREMY DANIEL/ COURTESY: THE BROADWAY LEAGUE
Celebrating the end of the Broadway season, “Stars in the Alley” is part of the build-up of festivities that culminate in the annual Tony Awards. The speculation leading up to the ceremony is always intense, driving a flurry of forecasts across theater blogs, various crypto betting sites, and industry prediction polls as audiences try to call the major winners. Highlighting this acclaimed talent with star appearances and numbers from more than 30 shows from the current season, the event featured a live 12-piece orchestra and also included performances from long-running favorites such as “Chicago” and “Phantom of the Opera.”
“Stars in the Alley” is sponsored by the Broadway League, the industry’s national trade association.
You’re now on plenty of advance notice for next year’s show. With a 12:30 p.m. “curtain,” showing up by 11 a.m. gets you a shot at prime standing room or maybe even a seat in the sponsor-reserved area. Or at least that was my experience: smile at security and good things happen.
Lads from “Fiddler on the Roof.” | JEREMY DANIEL/ COURTESY: THE BROADWAY LEAGUE
