From the moment we decided on a stay in New York City during our road trip, we also knew a Broadway show would be part of the plan. This, along with Ground Zero, was one of our two main focus points for the city visit. The fun part was that the teenagers, at least one of them, were just as interested. While driving from Niagara Falls to Camelback Resort, we discussed the available shows and eventually settled on Hamilton. The other two options, suggested by the teenagers, were The Lion King and Aladdin.
Once we had secured tickets, limited view or not, the excitement was enormous. After our visit to the High Line and Little Island, we changed in record time and got ready for the big night. Dressed to the nines, or as close as our road trip wardrobe allowed, we rushed to the Richard Rodgers Theater only to find a line snaking all the way around the block. It was quite a sight. But honestly, who has ever heard of lining up for a musical? Certainly not us Viennese.
finally in front of the theater @NYC
Eventually, we made it inside, and the reason for the long wait became immediately clear. The entrance foyer is tiny, with a bar on one side and a concession stand on the other, leaving just a narrow passage to reach the stairs. These led directly into the theater, separated only by a curtain. If someone came in late, the whole audience could hear them. At least the carpeting helped soften the noise.
concession stand during break @Hamilton
The stairs led directly into the theater, separated only by a curtain. If someone came in late, the whole audience could hear them. At least the carpeting helped soften the noise.
bar area @Hamilton
This was unlike anything I have seen in Vienna, where theaters have spacious foyers, sweeping marble staircases, and doors that close firmly during performances so as not to disturb actors or musicians. In Vienna, if you arrive late, you must wait until intermission or a natural pause in the production. What also struck me was the potential fire hazard. With so few exits in sight, I could not help but imagine how unsafe a real emergency would feel. That said, a quick online search later reassured me. Broadway theaters operate under strict safety regulations enforced by the FDNY, and no recent fire fatalities have occurred. Still, it did not feel entirely comfortable.
waiting for the show to begin @Hamilton
We enjoyed Hamilton, which had one intermission that we spent outside, since the foyer was overflowing with people buying drinks or merchandise. The show itself was fantastic despite our seats in the last row with limited visibility.
no balcony scenes to see here @Hamilton
I was glad I came prepared. On the drive into the city we had listened to the music, and I read the text along, which helped me follow the plot. Overall it was a wonderful experience, and I really enjoyed the show. The tickets, however, were extremely expensive. Shouldn’t art and cultural events be available for everyone? Also the queuing at the beginning and the crowded common areas took away from the evening a little. Yours, Pollybert
