Sunday, January 4, 2009

Cold Reality

It is not uncommon on Broadway for January and February, traditionally the slowest months, to see their share of closings. Still, this month is particularly brutal. Nine closings today, another four to come, including some major hits like Hairspray, Spamalot, and Spring Awakening. I know that Broadway isn't the center of the theatrical universe, but it's hard not to think of this as simply the most visible sign of the bad times. When you add in companies that are strapped and in danger of closing, I'm a little worried.

Maybe Obama will create a new Federal Theatre Project? I will happily be the new Hallie Flanagan.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Did you see the piece in Chicago's Timeout about the tailspinning economy not hurting Chicago's theatre scene? It's worth checking out. And maybe it means more non-musical plays for Broadway?