20-02-2025
Peek behind the curtain: How RBTL chooses shows
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – The spring season of theatre and Broadway shows is set to begin in just over a week. This week, News 8 got the inside scoop from the Rochester Broadway Theatre League on how some of your favorite shows get chosen.
Tuesday, organizers told News 8 it's actually quite a simple process – it's all about knowing your audience first and foremost. Officials said once they figure out what folks are itching to see, they compare those shows to what's been successful on Broadway.
They said adding a mix of family shows and classics is something they strive for.
'One of the things I like to talk about in the equation is first of all – when you have subscribers that are dedicated to seeing your shows, you need to find a way to bring the best of the new and try to get the best Broadway shows that were on the year prior that are touring, that have won awards – things that people enjoy seeing and try to program them,' said Albert Nocciolino, a producer and presenter for RBTL.
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He said, timing can often pose a challenge, including where tours for specific shows begin and where they end.
'If the reviews are good and the audience is enjoying them and people are having a good time, then they'll find their way on the road,' Nocciolino said. 'If you look at this current season we're in, we've got MJ the Musical, brand new show. Some Like it Hot, brand new show. Back to the Future, brand new show. We had Les Miserables and Mamma Mia, classics, shows that have been around 25 years can come back every six, seven, eight years and still do business. People love seeing them. We Try to find a family show. We had The Grinch this year as well, so, if you look at that combination…that's what happens every season. We get from the agents the shows that are ending up on the road and then try to program them.'
To keep up with RBTL shows and events, click here.
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