Broadway Comes Alive in Times Square Amidst Rain

On Sunday, a dedicated crowd of theater fans faced the rain to enjoy free performances of a Broadway favorite in Times Square, celebrating the city’s 400th Anniversary.

Enthusiasts gathered in Duffy Square, right off the Great White Way, drawn by shows like “Wicked,” “Mamma Mia!,” “The Book of Mormon,” and “Chicago.”

The performance included the cast of show No. 23, with many actors taking a stroll from the theater to prepare for the Sunday matinees.

It was a lively mix of theater lovers who came specifically for the event and tourists who stumbled upon it and were pleasantly surprised.

“When you think of New York, Broadway comes to mind, but I didn’t expect to see it all happening right here in Times Square,” said Terry Bush, a mother from Milwaukee visiting with her family.

“We planned to see ‘The Lion King’ during this trip, but maybe next time we’ll try something different,” she added.

Others sought the Times Square Show for the rare chance to experience performances without a ticket price.

“I adore Broadway, but the ticket prices can be daunting, so I always look for free events like this,” remarked Tamara K, a 19-year-old NYU student, unfazed by the light rain.

“Seeing Christopher Jackson perform was such a treat. I know him from ‘Hamilton’,” she shared, also expressing excitement about Jackson’s new show, “Hell’s Kitchen.”

This event was part of Mayor Eric Adams’ NYC By NYC initiative, a series of public celebrations marking the city’s founding 400 years ago.

Broadway League president Jason Lax commented, “There’s only one Broadway and one New York City. The heart of Times Square is ideal for celebrating Broadway’s heritage.”

The theater fans echoed this sentiment.

“One reason I moved to New York was to get close to Broadway and its theaters,” said a student from out of town who ventured up for the show. “I’m really glad to have this chance, even with the rain.”