West End Theatre: London’s Broadway

English language theater has two heavyweight champions: New York’s Broadway and London’s West End. The two terms, Broadway and West End, have come to represent largely the same thing: touristy districts in the largest cities in their respective nations, and industry leaders in professional theater. The two have become remarkably close in appeal and essence. In fact, total gross profits for Broadway and West End productions were both just above $12 million last year.

Probably the most glaring difference between the West End and Broadway is location. Other than that, they actually have a lot in common. They share many of the same plays, actors, directors and audience members.

So the question remains, which is the superior place to see a production, West End, or Broadway? The answer will probably be determined by each individual theatergoer. There are a few differences between the two, which are probably more subtle than obvious. Seeing the British version of The Office is different from seeing the American version, though they both share the same elements that make them successful. So if you like what you are seeing with your Broadway tickets (which you hopefully got at StubHub.com), you might want to check out something slightly different while you are in London this summer.

Permalink - Posted in General on July 6, 2007 - Post a comment