Get ready for some Broadway box office magic! 'Hamilton' has just shattered records, raking in a jaw-dropping $4.9 million in a single week! But here's the twist: this achievement is not just about the show's popularity during Thanksgiving week. It's also a testament to the power of original cast members. Leslie Odom Jr.'s return has been a game-changer, drawing theatergoers back to the musical in droves. And with an average ticket price of $454.81, it's no wonder 'Hamilton' is enjoying a near-$5 million windfall for just eight performances.
However, 'Wicked' still holds the crown for the highest weekly gross on Broadway, having surpassed $5 million last year. But 'Hamilton' is hot on its heels, and with the right combination of factors, it might just take the top spot soon.
And this is where it gets interesting: 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child' is giving these musicals a run for their money. Last week, it grossed an impressive $3.1 million, breaking box office records at the Lyric Theatre. The addition of Tom Felton, who portrayed Draco Malfoy in the films, to the cast has undoubtedly boosted its popularity.
'Wicked' followed closely with $3 million, while 'The Lion King' and 'Chess' (starring Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit, and Nicholas Christopher) brought in $2.8 million and $2 million, respectively. Both shows broke house records at their respective theaters.
Even 'Mamma Mia!' and 'Ragtime' had their best weeks on Broadway, with 'Mamma Mia!' grossing $2 million and 'Ragtime' bringing in nearly $1.5 million - a record for Lincoln Center Theater since the pandemic. And 'Chicago' had its highest-grossing Thanksgiving performance, despite being one of the few shows to perform on Thursday.
The industry as a whole saw a 19% increase in gross revenue from the previous week, with average paid admissions up by $22.41 and attendance up by 2.6%. As we head into the most lucrative weeks of the year, it's clear that Broadway is thriving.
So, what do you think? Is 'Hamilton' on its way to becoming the ultimate Broadway blockbuster? Or will 'Wicked' or another show take the crown? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on these incredible box office successes!
