Bringing in a staggering $14.7 billion in the 2018–2019 season alone (The Broadway League), Broadway is one of New York City’s most powerful economic engines.
Despite this statistic, Broadway shows, particularly musicals, are rarely a guaranteed success. For every long-running hit, countless productions close early, leaving empty chairs at empty tables and massive financial losses
While there is no single formula for success, most hit Broadway musicals share a few essential ingredients:
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Resonance
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Strong storytelling
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Speaking authentically to real world struggles and emotions
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One recognizable element or performer
Resonance
Timeless musicals do more than just provide a source of entertainment; they connect. Whether through an interesting storyline, memorable music, or compelling characters, these shows create an experience that sticks with audiences long after they leave the theater. “A great musical connects with the audience, thus involving us in what is transpiring on stage, allowing us to care about the characters and what is happening to them” (Miller, 2018). This emotional resonance is what turns a night at the theater into something unforgettable.
Strong Storytelling
Impressive choreography and catchy songs may draw intial attention, but it is shows with strong storytelling that leave a lasting impression on audiences. This emotional attachment turns a performance into a memorable and sometimes life-changing experience. In a 1996 Playbill On-Line poll, one participant noted that “Musicals that are all about show do very well, but don't move or stir up thoughts. A great musical does not create a spotlight for some star or a platform for some dazzling set. A great musical does not need that, it could be performed on a bare stage with amateurs and street clothes and still touch you. That is what makes a great musical.” This perspective reinforces the idea that what truly makes a great musical is not just its spectacle, but its ability to invoke feeling and spark thoughts.
Speaking To Real-World Struggles and Emotions
Many of Broadway’s most beloved musicals, like Rent and Next to Normal, succeeded not because of large budgets or flashy visuals but rather because they spoke to real-world struggles and emotions. They told stories of loss, illness, grief, identity, and topics that resonated with the lived experiences of their audiences. This authenticity creates trust and builds loyalty.
Recognizable Elements
While audience engagement matters, practical strategies are also a part of the formula that helps musicals succeed. Many hit shows rely on recognizable elements to build immediate interest.
“Successful shows often have a couple of key characteristics: a well-known actor or actress and a familiar story…” (Dent, 2021).
Familiarity can serve as a hook, drawing in people who might otherwise resist the idea of seeing something new. A recognizable name or storyline helps in generating buzz, encouraging media attention, and fostering word-of-mouth excitement. These elements work hand-in-hand with strong storytelling and emotional resonance to build a musical that is not only commercially successful but also culturally impactful.