66th and Broadway

66th and Broadway is a unique musical series that aired on PBS in 2015 and was designed to celebrate the extraordinary world of music and modern theater. Capturing the rich diversity of the contemporary performing arts scene, the show offers viewers an unparalleled experience featuring professional musicians, actors, and performers who transform New York City's Lincoln Center into their personal stage.

Hosted by the incredibly talented and charismatic Justin Vivian Bond, a cabaret artist and Tony-nominated performer, 66th and Broadway invites an array of artists from various disciplines to participate in an uplifting dialogue centered around their craft. Each episode focuses on bringing alive an element of musical theater through the lens of these remarkable artistes. The show was an instant magnet to the lovers of stage and music as it combined musical brilliance with insightful discussions around art, life, and everything in between.

Bond's intimate, conversational style threads each episode together, breaking down the barriers between the audience and performer, encouraging the guests to share their experiences, inspirations, and behind-the-scenes stories. This unfettered access to the minds of the creators not only made the show appealing to theatre enthusiasts but also to those interested in understanding the process of creation, the working of a theatrical performance, and the intricacies involved in bring a script to life on stage.

Unprecedented in its reach, 66th and Broadway brought together renowned artistes from the world of Broadway and beyond. This included world-famous musicians, singers, songwriters, and actors, all sharing their craft in an intimate setting. The luminary guests such as Alan Cumming, Norm Lewis, Lea Delaria, Sandra Bernhard, and John Cameron Mitchell, among others, participated in the series, each bringing their unique interpretations, tales, and performances to the small screen.

The series showcases a diverse range of performances, catering to a variety of musical tastes. From Broadway classics and musical theater standards to original compositions and innovative cabaret, the program is a musical treasure trove. This variety serves to highlight the range and depth of artistic talent that exists within the contemporary performing arts scene.

A defining feature of the series is its emphasis on live musical performances. These are not sterile, stage-managed affairs, but are infused with the raw electricity that can only come from live music. The performers, unguarded and passionate, captured the essence of live theatre even as the viewers experienced the magic from the comfort of their homes.

But the show is not just about the musical performances. It also attempts to delve into the inner workings of the performing arts scene. Through in-depth conversations with the guests, the program explores the joys and struggles of creative expression, the personal journeys of the artistes, and the intricate dynamics of the theatre world. These discussions offer the audience a rare glimpse into the personal and professional aspects of life in the performing arts.

Aired from the intimate Appel Room at the Lincoln Center, 66th and Broadway creates a unique aura. The room's floor-to-ceiling windows offer a stunning backdrop of Central Park and the New York City skyline, adding an additional layer of charm to the show. The setting, combined with the elite selection of guests and immersive performances, led 66th and Broadway to be perceived as a vibrant, dynamic, and high-profile platform for showcasing the best of music and theater.

In short, 66th and Broadway stands as a testament to the hard work and talent that underpins the performing arts scene. The series is a remarkable journey through music and performance, offering viewers an exclusive seat at a table usually reserved for those who inhabit the world of Broadway. It provides a dynamic and immersive exploration of the creative process, revealing how the magic unfolds from conception to performance. Whether you're a fan of musical theatre, a lover of music, or just someone who appreciates the arts, 66th and Broadway is a series well worth exploring. It’s certainly an extravaganza that only PBS could bring to the home audience.