HOW BROADWAY ROSE PICKS A SEASON OF SHOWS

Every spring, Broadway Rose starts the process of picking six shows to produce the following year. While there are many challenging things that come with running a theatre, Broadway Rose founders Sharon Maroney and Dan Murphy know that choosing the season is indeed the most difficult decision.

“We started this company together and even though my title is Artistic Director, Dan is as much part of the show selection as I am. We do not always see eye to eye,” said Sharon. “I think that the theatre company has actually benefited over the years because Dan and I have different tastes.” While this provides variety for Broadway Rose seasons, there is one common ground Sharon and Dan always land on–what is best for the organization and the audience.

“We try to pick a season that has contrast,” explained Sharon. “Shows that our audience will know the names of in addition to newer works to continue supporting emerging artists. Dan Murphy is famous for saying, ‘Oklahoma! was once new too.’” Bringing new works and familiar favorites to Broadway Rose audiences provides for a well-rounded season that encourages storytelling in a broader way.

The other consideration that goes into picking a season is looking at revenue, and while it doesn’t sound very artistic, Sharon likes to say “My artistic goal is to pay our bills every year.”

While every show at Broadway Rose over the last 33 years holds a special place in the company’s heart, there are two benchmark shows that Sharon has fond memories of: The King and I and The Will Rogers Follies. Both of which were big productions that required ingenuity and were labors of love.

This summer’s production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical proved to be a very complex, yet rewarding show. With an expansive set, large cast, and big numbers, the musical was truly a showstopper. “I wanted to do it for years and was thrilled when we got the opportunity, but it really gave all of our staff a run for their money,” said Sharon. “I am very, very proud of the show and grateful that lots of new people found Broadway Rose this summer.”

“I love this theatre company. I love working with artists. And I’m very proud of the fact that Dan and I have been able to develop our administrative skills to keep this organization moving forward and growing,” expressed Sharon. “I’m grateful for Meredith Gordon for stepping up to the plate as our Executive Director in 2023. I think that she has the unbridled passion that Dan and I do to keep this company moving forward.”

Broadway Rose audiences are the theatre’s support system. The best thing you can do to support Broadway Rose is to bring a friend who has never been to a show.

Now get ready for the 2025 Season: It’s Electrifying! We can’t wait to wow you all over again.

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