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Curtain Up: Celebrating the Intersection of Theater, Hospitality, and Great Performances

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Over a decade ago, as I searched for my next professional chapter, I realized I wanted to merge two passions: my background in the performing arts—both on and off stage—and my love for hospitality and service. Having admired Great Performances for years, I knew it was the perfect match.

Today, I’m continually inspired by our team’s unwavering dedication to service. With a 45-year legacy, Great Performances feels like a “theatrical family,” where many of us share deep roots in the arts. Our team’s artistic journey spans from summer stock productions under tents to Broadway, the West End, TV, and even film. Some have performed as far afield as Australia, bringing vibrant creativity into every aspect of what we do.

By 7:30 PM most evenings, if I’m not planning your event or attending your gala, you’ll likely find me at a theater box office, picking up tickets for a performance (yes, I still prefer paper tickets). Whether you’re enjoying a night out with friends, a group outing, or a solo theater date, there’s a special magic in the glitter of New York stages and beyond.

December Theater Highlights

Death Becomes Her at Lunt-Fontanne Theatre
Pure camp at its best. If you loved the film, you’ll adore the show. If you hated the film, you’ll still love it! Time Out calls it “savagely funny,” with Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard delivering musical-comedy brilliance.

The Hard Nut at the Peter J Sharpe Opera House at BAM
Since its 1991 premiere, The Hard Nut has redefined holiday traditions. Back at BAM this season, it’s a dazzling, irreverent take on George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker.

Anastasia at Bucks County Playhouse
A short drive from NYC to beautiful Bucks County, PA, this theater—set on a historic former grist mill by the Delaware River—consistently produces incredible work. Over the years, legends like Shirley Booth, Angela Lansbury, Zero Mostel, and Audra McDonald have graced its stage. Stay for the charming sights and flavors of New Hope!

Tips for Enjoying the Theater

Where to Buy

Tickets can be pricey, but these tips can help:

Where to See

Great theater isn’t limited to Broadway. Explore these options:

  • Off-Broadway and Off- Off Broadway: Intimate venues with incredible productions.
  • Cabarets: Catch performances at spots like Joe’s Pub or 54 Below.
  • Regional Theater: Gems like Paper Mill Playhouse or Bucks County Playhouse.
  • Community Theater: Local productions can surprise and delight.
  • Unconventional Settings: From pub basements in London to lofts in Florence, theater finds its home everywhere.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Here are a few shows I’m excited about:

Operation Mincemeat (Opens February 15, Golden Theatre)
This West End transfer tells the fast-paced, hilarious true story of a secret mission that helped win World War II.

Mamma Mia! (US Tour)
Celebrating 25 years, this ABBA-filled classic is hitting the road again. A mother, a daughter, and a trip down the aisle set to iconic hits—you can’t resist!

Titanique (Daryl Roth Theatre)
A laugh-out-loud parody of Titanic told through the lens of Céline Dion as if she were aboard the ship. It’s 100 minutes of comedic brilliance.

The Threepenny Opera (Opens April 3, BAM)
In partnership with St. Ann’s Warehouse, this bold, jazz-infused satire from Bertolt Brecht remains as relevant and razor-sharp today as when it debuted in 1928.

Wherever you live—whether in the heart of Manhattan or the outskirts of Tucson—the performing arts await. From local theaters and nonprofit stages to Broadway and beyond, there’s a vibrant world of storytelling to discover and support.