Broadway experienced a monumental year in 2006, surpassing the successes of 2005 and setting new records in attendance and ticket sales. The allure of live Broadway performances remained strong, drawing audiences into a world of captivating musicals, stunning designs, and unforgettable characters.
The Majestic Theatre continued to host the record-breaking “Phantom of the Opera.” Since its debut on January 26, 1988, the musical achieved a historic milestone on January 9, 2006, becoming Broadway’s longest-running show with its 7,486th performance. “Phantom” garnered numerous Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Actor (Michael Crawford), and Best Featured Actress (Judy Kaye), alongside accolades for its lighting, scenic design, and costume design.
At the St. James Theatre, “The Producers” maintained its popularity with sold-out shows. This Mel Brooks musical, about a producer and accountant scheming to profit from a deliberately bad show, has won more Tony Awards than any other Broadway production. Their plans go awry with unexpected success.
“The Color Purple,” which opened at the Broadway Theatre on December 1, 2005, consistently sold out. Renowned for its emotional depth, it grossed approximately $2 million weekly and ranked among the top five highest-grossing musicals. Predictions suggested it could potentially surpass all existing musicals in ticket sales during 2006.
Other notable record-breakers included “Beauty and the Beast,” “Doubt,” “Jersey Boys,” and “The Lion King.” “Beauty and the Beast” achieved remarkable sales at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre and stood as the 6th longest-running show. “Doubt” received both Tony and Pulitzer Prizes. “Jersey Boys” remained a fresh and popular musical at the August Wilson Theatre. “The Lion King” prepared to move to the Minskoff Theatre in June 2006, continuing its record-breaking momentum.
2006 also saw the arrival of new productions. “Mary Poppins,” adapted from the beloved 1964 Disney film, began performances in October or November at the New Amsterdam Theatre, anticipated to replicate its London success. “The Wedding Singer,” based on the popular movie, opened on April 27, 2006, at the Al Hirshfeld Theatre. “Tarzan,” based on Edgar Rice Burroughs’ story, also premiered on Broadway in March.
“Ring of Fire,” a musical tribute to Johnny Cash, opened on March 12, 2006, at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, hoping to attract country music fans, especially in the wake of the successful “Walk the Line” movie.
Broadway’s prosperous 2005 extended into 2006, with around 30 new shows scheduled. While some achieved great success, others faced early closures. The question lingered: would the next “Phantom of the Opera” emerge?