The recent success of theatrical shows is undeniable, and you’ll find no better evidence than at BroadwayCon. This relatively new creation, birthed by Mischief Management and veteran Broadway performer Anthony Rapp, is merchandising the Broadway industry in a three-day long event at the Javits Center.
I had the opportunity to attend one day of BroadwayCon 2017 and was thoroughly impressed by how much fascinating content was presented. One may hear the word “Broadway” and think there could be no entertainment outside of the shows themselves, but BroadwayCon destroys that fallacy.
Fun was provided in the social aspect of sharing admiration for certain musicals with peers (including in some cases dressing up as characters from those shows.) There were eye-opening forums of Broadway’s top directors and choreographers explaining their creative processes. And there were panels featuring casts and creative teams including the full crew from the hit Dear Evan Hansen, and the first replacement cast of the phenomenon Hamilton. These panels gave an enthralling look behind Broadway’s hottest shows.
The best feature of BroadwayCon is what’s called First Look. It’s essentially a concert where fans
get a glimpse into the upcoming season’s new shows. Musicals that you otherwise may not have
heard about create buzz with their performances. This benefits both the shows and fans by generating
excitement. This was particularly the case for Come From Away featuring Jenn Colella and Bandstand featuring Laura Osnes and Corey Cott. Both are shows that haven’t yet opened in New York, but surely intrigued hundreds of eager BroadwayCon attendees.
There seems to be a convention for nearly every form of fandom these days, so it’s only fitting that the Broadway community, full of creativity and passion, has their own. If you’re a theater-lover and want to further explore any and every aspect of the industry, BroadwayCon is the experience for you.
Below, Andy Blankenbuehler, Laura Osnes & Corey Cott from Bandstand
