New York City is marking its 400th Anniversary with a stunning showcase of its most iconic art form: Broadway. On Sunday, September 7th, at 11:00 AM, a free concert titled “Founded By Broadway” will transform Times Square into a vibrant stage for the performing arts.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Table of Contents
- 1. A Star-Studded Lineup
- 2. Part of a Year-Long Festivity
- 3. Event Details and Broadway week
- 4. The Enduring Legacy of Broadway
- 5. frequently Asked Questions About the Broadway Concert
- 6. What types of Broadway shows are typically featured in “Broadway in the Park”?
- 7. Broadway in the Park: free Concert in Times Square This September
- 8. What to Expect at the Free Broadway Concert
- 9. Dates and Times for September 2025
- 10. Getting to Times Square & Navigating the Crowds
- 11. beyond the Stage: What Else to Do in Times Square
- 12. broadway Accessibility & Inclusivity
- 13. Tech Integration & Show Details – Broadway & Beyond
- 14. Supporting Broadway & Future Events
More than 20 acclaimed Broadway productions are poised to participate, sending cast members to perform in the heart of Duffy Square. Audiences can anticipate show-stopping performances from beloved hits such as Aladdin,Wicked,The Book of Mormon,The Lion King,MJ,Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,Oh mama!,& Juliet,and even Stranger Things: The First Shadow,which will temporarily trade the mysterious Upside down for the bustling streets of Midtown.
Part of a Year-Long Festivity
This event is a cornerstone of mayor Eric Adams’ “Founded By NYC” campaign, a year-long initiative designed to commemorate four centuries of new York City’s rich history. Throughout 2024, the city has already hosted a series of events, including 400 blocks of Summer Streets, outdoor movie screenings, and a prosperous Museum Mile Festival. this Times Square concert promises to be the campaign’s most prominent event yet.
“For over a century, a distinctive stretch of theaters in Manhattan has captivated audiences worldwide, transporting them through time and across cultures,” stated Mayor Adams. “The narrative of Broadway is inextricably linked to the story of New York City. With ‘Founded By Broadway,’ we aim to share both these compelling narratives this September.”
Jason Laks, President of The Broadway League, echoed this sentiment, asserting that there is “only one Broadway and only one New York City,” and characterizing the concert as a celebration of “the energy, talent, and storytelling that define New York and inspire the world.”
Event Details and Broadway week
the concert will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM in Duffy Square, situated between West 46th and West 47th Streets, between Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Admission is entirely free and open to the public, requiring no tickets. Attendees are encouraged to come prepared to enjoy the performances and sing along.
The timing of the concert coincides with the launch of Broadway Week, offering theater enthusiasts the prospect to purchase discounted tickets – two-for-one – to a wide range of Broadway shows. This initiative provides an added incentive for audiences to immerse themselves in the world of broadway.
According to The broadway League, in 2023, Broadway generated over $1.6 billion in gross ticket sales, proving its continued economic and cultural significance to New York City. source: Broadway League
Did You Know? Broadway’s origins can be traced back to the early 19th century,with the construction of the Park Theater in 1817,which was one of the first professional theaters in the united States.
| Event | Date | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founded By Broadway Concert | September 7, 2025 | Duffy Square, Times Square | Free |
| Broadway week | Starts September 7, 2025 | Various Broadway Theaters | Two-for-One Tickets |
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot in Duffy Square, as the concert is expected to draw large crowds.
As New York City celebrates its remarkable history, the “Founded By Broadway” concert promises to be a memorable event, uniting theater lovers and residents alike in a celebration of the city’s vibrant arts scene. It’s a birthday party for the ages,and everyone is invited.
What are your plans for celebrating New York City’s 400th birthday? Which Broadway show are you most excited to see during Broadway Week?
The Enduring Legacy of Broadway
Broadway is more than just a collection of theaters; it represents a cornerstone of American culture and a meaningful economic engine for New York City. The industry consistently evolves, adapting to changing tastes and embracing new technologies. From the golden age of musicals to the innovative productions of today, Broadway continues to shape the landscape of live entertainment.
The influence of Broadway extends far beyond New York City, inspiring regional theaters and serving as a training ground for aspiring performers, writers, and designers. The industry also faces ongoing challenges, including ticket affordability and ensuring diversity and inclusion both on and off stage.
frequently Asked Questions About the Broadway Concert
- What is broadway Week? Broadway Week is a bi-annual event offering two-for-one tickets to select Broadway productions.
- Is the “Founded By Broadway” concert free? Yes, admission to the concert in Times Square is free and open to the public.
- Where will the concert take place? The concert will be held in Duffy Square,located between West 46th and West 47th Streets in Times Square.
- What shows will be featured in the concert? Over 20 Broadway shows, including Aladdin, Wicked, and The Lion King, will be represented.
- Will the concert happen if it rains? Yes, the concert is scheduled to take place rain or shine.
- How can I find more information about Broadway Week? Visit broadway Week’s official website for details and participating shows.
What types of Broadway shows are typically featured in “Broadway in the Park”?
Broadway in the Park: free Concert in Times Square This September
What to Expect at the Free Broadway Concert
This September, Times Square will once again transform into a vibrant outdoor theater for “Broadway in the Park,” a completely free concert series showcasing the best of Broadway musicals. This annual event is a highlight for both New Yorkers and tourists, offering a unique prospect to experience live Broadway performances without the hefty ticket price. Expect a diverse lineup featuring excerpts from current hit shows and beloved classics.
Dates and Times for September 2025
While the specific schedule for September 2025 is still being finalized (check back closer to the date for updates!), past years have followed a similar format:
Week 1 (Sept 1-5): Focus on new Broadway shows opening this fall.
Week 2 (Sept 8-12): A party of long-running Broadway favorites.
Week 3 (Sept 15-19): Emerging artists and smaller-scale productions.
Week 4 (Sept 22-26): A grand finale featuring a rotating cast of performers from all participating shows.
Performances typically begin around 6:00 PM each evening, but it’s always best to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. The event is rain or shine, with covered areas available in case of inclement weather.
times Square is easily accessible by numerous subway lines:
1,2,3,7,N,Q,R,W,and S trains all stop within walking distance.
Consider using the MTA Trip Planner (https://new.mta.info/) to find the best route from your location.
Pro-Tip: Public transportation is highly recommended. Traffic congestion in Times Square is significant, and parking is limited and expensive.
given the popularity of “Broadway in the Park,” expect large crowds. Here’s how to navigate them:
- Arrive Early: Claim your spot at least an hour before the scheduled performance time.
- Stake Out a View: Consider the stage setup and potential obstructions when choosing your location.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially on warmer evenings.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pedestrian traffic.
beyond the Stage: What Else to Do in Times Square
Times Square offers much more than just the free concert. Make a day of it by exploring nearby attractions:
Broadway Theaters: Take advantage of the proximity to Broadway and consider purchasing tickets to a full-length show.
Restaurants & Dining: From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Times Square has something to satisfy every palate.
Shopping: explore flagship stores and souvenir shops.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum: Get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Times Square: Discover the bizarre and incredible.
broadway Accessibility & Inclusivity
The “Broadway in the Park” concert series strives to be accessible to all.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Designated wheelchair-accessible viewing areas are available.
Assistive Listening devices: Contact the event organizers in advance to inquire about assistive listening devices.
Sensory-Kind Performances: While not always available, organizers are exploring options for sensory-friendly performances in future years.
Tech Integration & Show Details – Broadway & Beyond
Interestingly, applications like broadway (as highlighted by worldsoft bizcaroid Lite Broadway) demonstrate a growing trend of tech integration within the Broadway experience. While not directly related to the concert itself, this reflects a broader movement to enhance audience engagement and access to show information. these apps can definitely help you discover new musicals, find showtimes, and even access album art and soundtracks. This digital connection extends the Broadway experience beyond the theater walls.
Supporting Broadway & Future Events
Attending “Broadway in the Park” is a fantastic way to support the Broadway community. Consider these additional ways to show your support:
Purchase Tickets: Attend a Broadway show!
Donate to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS: A non-profit organization that raises funds for HIV/AIDS research and care. (https://broadwaycares.org/)
* Spread the Word: Share information about “Broadway in the Park” and other broadway events with your friends and family.
