History of Broadway

Broadway is the longest street in New York City. It begins in downtown Manhattan and runs through town and across the Broadway Bridge, connecting Manhattan with the Bronx. Originally, this land was a Dutch frontier trading post and stage performances were actually forbidden. This area has been referred to as the "Great White Way" and consists of 11 streets. When a play is performed in a location other than the 11 blocks, which is considered the theater district, the term "Off Broadway" is used.

During World War I, a major change took place in Broadway theater. Theater became a participant in the world rather than just entertaining. This trend continued through the Depression and today. It's difficult to select the best shows on Broadway, but a few have returned over and over to the stage. Five of what are considered in the top ten plays are "The Phantom of the Opera," "The Lion King," "Cats," "Les Miserables," "Wicked" and "The Producers."

Despite the current interest in Broadway, it has never been able to regain the level of popularity enjoyed in the 1920s. A book written by Myrna Katz, "It Happened on Broadway," will offer a great history of Broadway. Many interviews took place to put this book together. The interviews were with not only actors and actresses, but directors, writers, designers, costume designers, light specialist, etc. A quote from Jane Summerhays sums the book. "I believe in the healing power of the theater, that it is a place where we all come together. Its a second-chance family."