Following the bustling Thanksgiving holiday, Broadway witnessed a brief return to normalcy last week, experiencing a 9% drop in gross revenue, landing at approximately $42 million. This reduction was anticipated as audiences typically thin out after the holiday rush. Nevertheless, despite this decline, attendance remained robust, with nearly 310,000 theatergoers filling the seats—the vibrant energy of live performances continues to draw audiences even as the holiday euphoria fades.
Among the productions reigning at the box office, “Wicked” emerged once again as the frontrunner, bringing in nearly $2.8 million. This iconic musical has consistently attracted large audiences, showcasing its enduring appeal. Following closely were “The Lion King” and “Hamilton,” which also maintained formidable earnings of $2.4 million and $2.03 million, respectively. These financial performances illustrate the staying power of established titles, which not only captivate new audiences but also draw repeat viewers eager to experience the magic of these celebrated shows.
As some productions wrap up their runs, others are just starting to find their footing. “Tammy Faye,” in its concluding week, noted an increase in revenue, climbing over $111,000 to reach $371,511—though it occupied fewer than 50% of the Palace’s seating. “Water For Elephants” similarly ended its run with a gross of $957,672 at approximately 66% attendance. These figures remind us of the volatile nature of theater, where closings occur alongside fresh openings, allowing for a dynamic rotation of content.
In contrast, three new productions are currently in previews, each carving their niche in the competitive landscape of Broadway. “Cult of Love” kicked off with solid earnings of $299,320 and a commendable 90% attendance, while “Eureka Day” and “Gypsy” also exhibited promising starts, earning $227,533 and $1.6 million, respectively. The anticipation surrounding their official openings reflects both the producers’ confidence and the audience’s readiness to discover fresh stories.
Broadway’s financial health appears optimistic in the current season. With a cumulative gross nearing $949 million for the 2024-25 season—indicative of a 14% surge compared to the previous year—it’s clear that live theater continues to resonate with audiences. Attendance figures further corroborate this growth with over 7.6 million tickets sold thus far.
As Broadway embraces the landscape post-holiday, the fluctuation in revenue and attendance showcases the industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Despite the seasonal shifts, the consistent high performers alongside new entries illustrate that the heart of Broadway remains vibrant, promising a bright future for theatergoers in the weeks and months to come. For ongoing updates and detailed box office stats, the Broadway League remains the go-to resource for industry insights.