Celebrating Broadway's Opening Nights: A Journey of Passion and Pride

Opening Nights are so much Fun... 

It's always so great being able to be a part of an opening night. For me, there are many different angles to this... One, I saw my first Broadway show at age 17/18. It felt so far away for me, being able to be there and do that... I grew up in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico... Loved arts but dreaming of being part of an opening night on broadway was sort of unthinkable. 

I have experienced a few by now, both being in the show, having created the show, or coming to see and support the show. Theater and Broadway theater are my life!, and I have somehow become a leader/creative within the theatrical industry. I guess this means the dreams are possible... and I am dreaming of new adventures on the topic of opening nights... 

Today, I am taking a look at opening nights in this blog with a different angle... I see now opening nights with the eyes of a child. I see my kid, age 9, having the experience of an opening, walking the red carpet, and enjoying the presence of so many brilliant artists and the community we make. Broadway's history is vast, and the alter opening of THE WIZ was a great reminder of that. A revival that has original members present and the new vision of a new generation of theater artists, and in all of that, we are there to celebrate a dear friend, Heather Hogan, who serves as a stage manager for the show. How many of us talk and celebrate the role of a stage manager?

A Broadway stage manager is like the conductor of an intricate symphony, orchestrating every aspect of a theatrical production behind the scenes. 

Their role encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, including:

Production Coordination: They oversee the logistical details of a production, from scheduling rehearsals to coordinating with various departments such as costumes, sets, lighting, and sound. During rehearsals, the stage manager ensures that actors, directors, and technical crews adhere to the schedule and that everyone is prepared and focused.

They work on maintaining details for the Script Supervision and  the Technical Management.  They work closely with lighting and sound designers to execute cues precisely and maintain the technical elements of the show.

 

In summary they are a needed magical part of the show. At the end of the day, The stage manager serves as the central communication point between the director, cast, crew, and production team, relaying important information and ensuring everyone is on the same page and SAFE. I've seen Heather Hogan be so great on each element of the job!

Coming back to Opening nights... At the Wiz... I feel a vast culture, a sense of pride, and great representation of the BIPOC community walking (in this case) the yellow carpet, and my family and I, we are a part of all that. And again, we are here not just because we love theater and have paved our own way, but because our friends are making this magic manifest. We arrive and expect to start the schedule for 6 pm. My son had to leave his dance class at Alvin Ailey, and I didn't even have time to properly dress due to coming from rehearsal, so we sit and observe, waiting for it to start... But the celebrities are arriving, and the yellow carpet extends from the outside picture to the entryway inside the theater... 

My son looks fascinated, as if his childhood Disney characters were back coming into a parade but this time the parade is real people that looks like us and we admire and "the Disney" is a magical place where we tell compelling stories and inspire each other and future generations to go beyond!... 

Finally, the show starts, and his eyes eat it all up. 

His expression and reaction are everything. The show happens, and we stand up to celebrate the hard work of EVERYONE. 

After this, we gather around the stage door. I hug old friends and head to the party. The party has some of the best Broadway creatives. 

I get to say hello to all, People Like Tim who I met during In The Heights and is now a master mind house manager at Hamilton! I say Hello to Chris at the Stage door where I did ON your Feet!!!! I see Ali Solomon who helped create the Motto of DARE TO GO BEYOND for R.Evolucion Latina... I see all this humans I respect... remembering the path... The fact that once I had no idea I could be here and I am here now with my FAMILIA.... OMG, this kid who came from Puerto Rico is now a part of this world. I followed my own hello brick road and made it HOME! broadway HOME! Can you see a brand new day? 

I dream of Broadway shows daily. I work toward directing and choreographing them and hopefully having my friend stage manage one of my Broadway shows opening in the near future.  

In other words:

Opening nights on Broadway are more than just the premiere of a show; they are moments filled with anticipation, excitement, and a profound sense of community. As someone deeply entrenched in the world of theater, each opening night holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of my own journey and the collective experiences of the theater community. 

I delve into the magic of opening nights, reflecting on their significance and celebrating the unsung heroes behind the scenes, particularly the invaluable role of the Broadway stage manager.

A Personal Reflection

My journey with Broadway began at a young age, a spectator enthralled by the grandeur and artistry of the stage. Opening nights seemed like distant dreams, until I found myself not only attending them but also contributing to the creative process as a performer, creator, and supporter. Theater isn't just a passion for me; it's a way of life—a journey that has led me to unexpected places and forged connections with remarkable individuals.

Rediscovering Opening Nights through Fresh Eyes

With the birth of my child, I embarked on a new chapter—one that allowed me to experience opening nights through the innocence and wonder of a young soul. Witnessing my child walk the red carpet, surrounded by luminaries of the stage, illuminated the profound impact of theater on the next generation. It's a reminder that the magic of Broadway transcends generations, leaving an indelible mark on all who experience it.

Honoring the Backbone of Broadway: 

The Stage Manager's Role

In the bustling world of Broadway, where the spotlight often shines brightest on actors and directors, it's essential to acknowledge the unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes. The Broadway stage manager, akin to a conductor guiding a symphony, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless execution of every production. From coordinating logistics to managing emergencies, their expertise and dedication are the linchpin of a successful show.

Embracing Diversity and Community

As I sit in the theatre, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of cultures and voices, I am reminded of the vibrant tapestry that is Broadway. The representation of the BIPOC community, both on and off the stage, is a testament to the inclusivity and richness of our collective narrative. Opening nights become a celebration of diversity, pride, and the shared camaraderie that unites us all.

The Thrill of the Unveiling

As the curtain rises and the audience falls silent in anticipation, a wave of excitement washes over me. The culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and passion unfolds before our eyes, leaving us breathless and inspired. It's a moment of pure magic—a testament to the transformative power of theater.

Dreams and Aspirations

With each opening night, I am reminded of the dreams that fuel my journey. From directing and choreographing my own Broadway shows to collaborating with talented individuals like my dear friend Heather Hogan, whose mastery as a stage manager elevates every production, the future brims with endless possibilities. Opening nights are not just the culmination of a creative endeavor; they are the beginning of a new chapter, filled with hope, ambition, and the promise of tomorrow.

A Love Letter to Opening Nights

In the journey to art with a purpose in my life, opening nights stand as vibrant threads, weaving together memories, aspirations, and the essence of what it means to be part of something greater than oneself. With each performance, we celebrate not just the artistry on stage but also the countless individuals who breathe life into every production. So here's to the magic of Broadway's opening nights—to the dreams realized, the friendships forged, and the enduring legacy of a community bound by a love for the stage. As the curtain falls and applause fills the air, I am reminded once again: I love opening nights.

I love opening nights!

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