A pop-up performance in Times Square reminds NYers that the spirit of Broadway is still alive!
Though it was sadly announced that Broadway won’t be coming back to New York until at least May 30, 2021, it’s nice to know the community is still present.
On Wednesday, October 7th, NYCNext organized “A Moment for Broadway” on the TKTS Red Steps in Times Square for a pop-up performance. The performers sang “Sunday” from Sunday in the Park With George “to bring vibrancy to New York,” says a press release from NYCNext, and was the first reunion of the Broadway community since COVID-19 led to theater shutdowns in March. Co-founder of NYCNext, Maryam Banikarim hopes “to inspire people, either in New York or in other cities, to use [their] model and create events of their own.”
NYCNext is a group of 100+ volunteers aiming “to harness the creative energy and irrepressible spirit of New York to bring moments of joy, while also giving back to the artists, neighborhoods, and people who make the city home,” said NYCNext. Their goal is to “help the city we love recover and rebuild and energize and inspire others to act,” according to their website.
Many Broadway acclaimed names were in attendance including Bernadette Peters, one of the original main characters (Dot) in Broadway’s 1984 debut of Sundays in the Park with George.
Directed by Pulitzer and Tony award-winning composer Tom Kitt and Tony honoree Michael McElroy, the groups first large performance was a spontaneous event that surely brought joy to New Yorkers lucky enough to watch. “We stand together as a group of artists deeply committed to the theater and city we love, representing what is possible when diverse lived experiences and talents lift their voices in song,” said Tom Kitt the day of the performance.
To help comply with social distancing guidelines, NYCNext ensures not to promote their pop-ups prior to the event. But have no fear, you can catch the live performances by streaming or watching afterwards!
See also: 15 Best Public Art Installations In NYC To See Before 2021
featured image source: Instagram @nyclovesnyc