Broadway is back after eighteen long months of being closed; Hamilton, The Lion King, Wicked, and Chicago all reopened on Sept. 14, with their first performances since the pandemic. 

“We saw Hamilton last Thursday.  The energy in the theater was amazing.  People were thrilled to be there,” said Ms. Colleen Nawojchik, a Port Washington resident. 

Over the summer, Springsteen on Broadway, Hadestown, and Waitress were performed for the first time. 

The new play Pass Over is also on Broadway for the first time.  It was written by Antoinette Chinonye Nwandu, and opened on Aug. 22.  Despite its current popularity, Pass Over is on a limited run, and will only be playing through Oct. 10.

Numerous other Broadway shows are returning such as Come From Away on Sept. 21, Aladdin on Sept. 28, Six on Oct. 3, and many more.  In addition, the previews for the play Lackawanna Blues began on Sept. 14, and the official opening date of the show is Sept. 28. 

“I haven’t been to many Broadway musicals, but the ones I did go to I absolutely loved.  Some of my best memories are seeing Mean Girls with my friends and Hamilton with my family.  I am so excited for all of the performers and Broadway-lovers that it is finally reopening,” said sophomore Eliza Harnden.

Many COVID-19 protocols have been put in place for the reopening of Broadway. It is necessary that all audience members wear face masks unless they are eating or drinking in one of the specified areas.  All performers, backstage crew, theatre staff, and audience members must also show proof of vaccination.  For children who are not eligible for a vaccine, a negative COVID-19 test must be provided.  

“Staggered arrival times helped manage the crowd.  Proof of vaccine and masks were required.  The person validating vaccine status was friendly and efficient, so that went smoothly.  It felt good to contribute to NYC coming back,” said Ms. Nawojchik. 

To make this even more exciting, two special guests made an appearance at the reopening of Wicked.  Kristen Chenoweth, the original Glinda in Wicked, was at the reopening, as was music and lyric writer, Stephen Schwartz.

“The last Broadway play that I saw was Wicked in 2019.  I am so ready for Broadway to open up again because I miss the music, lights, and overall experience of going to a play,” said sophomore Ben Salit. 

Not only did stars from Wicked arrive at the reopening, but Lin Manuel Miranda and other Broadway performers extended their presence, too.  They sang Theme from ‘New York, New York’ outside of the Richard Rodgers Theater, home to  Hamilton, a few hours prior to showtime. 

“I’m very excited to go back after all this time and see Broadway shows even though I know it won’t be the same as it was before,” said sophomore Averie Masia.