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NYC VIBE at NYC Broadway Con 2018

February, 2018 – They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway. They also say there is magic in the air….

On the west side of Manhattan, the magic of Broadway extended to “Broadway Con” which is theater’s answer to “Comic Con” – setting the stage for the Great White Way’s biggest stars and their biggest fans to come together to discuss, debate, and celebrate theater in New York City!

Several self proclaimed theater fanatics arrived dressed in costumes depicting their favorite Broadway characters staying true to form, such as “Phantom of the Opera” and Peggy Schuyler from “Hamilton”. Others also created their own outrageous outfits to pay tribute to Broadway.

Everywhere we turned at Broadway Con fans were in a frenzy, collecting autographs, memorabilia and taking selfies. There were also discussion panels on how Broadway shows are cast along with dance and performing workshops. There were seminars covering production, set design, costuming and advertising.

There were songs to be sung at Broadway Con as well – thanks to an organization that NYC VIBE viewers should remember from last year – Sing for Hope Pianos. Broadway Con also provided a unique opportunity for established, award winning stars to interact with budding actors who aspire to see their name in lights one day.

Fans packed the auditorium to take a trip back in time to witness the 10 year reunion of “In The Heights” with Lin Manuel Miranda, Mandy Gonzalez, and the other original cast members. The reunion was hosted by Lin’s Father – Luis Miranda. Lin created and starred in the Tony Award winning production in 2007 well before he created his most celebrated masterpiece, “Hamilton”.

Business in Broadway is Booming! According to figures released by the Broadway League – The 2016/2017 season is the best on record. Sales were up 5.5% for a total of 1.45 Billion Dollars in revenue. Each Theater season brings a new wave of Broadway Shows – From Revivals to new dramas, musicals, and comedies. Who knows, today’s fans at Broadway Con may be tomorrow’s stars on Broadway!