Disney: The Fairy Godmother of 42nd Street
So, you're wondering why the heck Disney decided to ditch the magic kingdom for the concrete jungle and restore a theater in the heart of New York City? Well, buckle up, because this story is more magical than a Cinderella slipper.
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| Why Nyc Theatre Was Restored By Disney In 1997 |
A Cinderella Story (Kinda)
Let's rewind to the 90s. Times Square was, shall we say, less than enchanting. It was more like a villain's lair than a fairytale setting. But amidst the grime and grit, there was a sleeping beauty - the New Amsterdam Theatre. This gorgeous Art Nouveau gem was stuck in a glass slipper of neglect.
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Enter Disney, the ultimate fairy godmother. Now, you might be thinking, "Why on Earth would Mickey Mouse want to hang out with a bunch of Broadway divas?" Well, it turns out, there was more to it than just a love for show tunes.
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The Big Picture
Disney had a grand plan. They wanted to sprinkle their magic dust on Times Square and transform it into a family-friendly destination. Restoring the New Amsterdam was the first step. It was like giving Cinderella a makeover and sending her to the royal ball.
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But why the New Amsterdam? Well, it was a masterpiece. Think of it as the crown jewel of 42nd Street. Restore it, and you're not just fixing up a theater, you're reviving a piece of history. Plus, it was big enough to house their upcoming blockbuster musical, The Lion King. Talk about a match made in heaven!
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A Happy Ever After
Fast forward to 1997, and voila! The New Amsterdam was reborn. It was like a phoenix rising from the ashes, but with less fire and more glitter. The Lion King roared onto the stage, and the rest, as they say, is history. Disney's gamble paid off big time. Times Square got a makeover, Broadway got a boost, and we got to experience the magic of theater in a truly magical setting.
So, next time you're caught up in the dazzling lights of Times Square, take a moment to appreciate the fairy tale that brought it all together. And remember, even the grittiest places can have a happily ever after.
How-To's for Your Inner Theater Geek
- How to appreciate the New Amsterdam’s architecture: Look up! The ceilings are insane.
- How to experience the magic of The Lion King: Grab a ticket and prepare to be amazed.
- How to support Broadway: See a show, buy merchandise, or simply spread the word.
- How to become a theater critic: Start by seeing every show in town (good luck with that!).
- How to survive a Broadway show lottery: Be patient, be persistent, and maybe bring a lucky charm.
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