by Thomas Gallogly and Sarah Haley

Broadway is known as the vibrant, beating heart of the performing arts scene in New York City. An endless array of Tony Award-winning productions are at your finger tips, and at the intersection of Broadway and 42nd Street, you will find dazzling marquees that are larger than life. During the 1980s, however, the economic state of the country took a sharp turn and Broadway struggled to maintain its glitz and glamour. Much to the tune and style of Other People’s Money, the economic decline Americans experienced began to influence lifestyle choices. As the purse strings of theatre lovers began to tighten, Broadway fell victim to the hurting economy, and ticket sales declined.

Despite the hard economic times, Other People’s Money opened in 1989, and saw great success Off-Broadway. The hit play faced the country’s economic situation head on, and audience members saw their own hardships come to life on stage. Due to its relatability, Other Peoples Money was able to thrive during a dark time on Broadway. In the years following, with the help from a few mega-musical openings and a decrease in crime, Broadway returned to its former state and in 2016 earned the title of Number 1 tourist destination in America with an annual visitor count of 41,900,000.