How Many People Are Onstage During a Broadway Show?

The number of people on stage during a Broadway show can vary greatly, depending on the type of production and the specific show itself. Whether it's a play or a musical, the cast size can range from a few to dozens of performers.

Types of Broadway Shows

Broadway shows can be broadly categorized into two main types: plays and musicals. Plays focus primarily on the spoken word, often with minimal or no music, while musicals incorporate singing, dancing, and dramatic dialogue, making them more visually and aurally engaging.

Plays

Plays typically feature smaller casts, with some notable exceptions like the long-running and critically acclaimed The Mousetrap. A play might have anywhere from 2 to 10 actors, depending on the complexity of the plot and the script. This intimate setting allows for a closer connection between the audience and the performers, enhancing the emotional impact of the storytelling.

Musicals

In contrast, musicals usually have a larger cast size. A typical Broadway musical may feature as few as 8 to 15 performers for a smaller show, while grander productions like Hamilton can have over 40 actors. Musicals require a greater number of performers to accommodate the choreography, singing, and additional roles needed to tell a complex story.

Factors Influencing Cast Size

Several factors can influence the number of people on stage, including the production's needs, budget constraints, and the nature of the show itself:

Choreography and Dance Numbers

Complex dance sequences and large ensemble numbers require a larger cast. Producers often consider the physical demands and coordination needed to pull off elaborate routines.

For example, in Chicago, the iconic dance numbers involving the Former Al Capone dancers necessitate a more substantial cast.

Multitudes of Roles

Roles that need to be covered for matinee and evening shows also contribute to a larger cast. Producing a show with roles that must be filled for different performances is more costly and requires a more substantial cast.

Some musicals, such as Showboat, have numerous roles that need to be filled for each performance.

Support Roles and Ensemble Performers

Support roles and ensemble performers are often necessary for the show's structure and overall feel. Characters like extras, ensemble members, or additional dancers help to flesh out the world of the story.

For instance, in Anastasia, the presence of an ensemble is crucial for creating a vibrant, historical setting.

Performers and Crew

While the number of performers on stage is the main focus, it's important to consider the entire cast and crew of a Broadway show. This includes multiple performers, understudies, and rotating cast members for different performances. For example, in Matilda, the main cast is complemented by numerous understudies ready to take over roles as needed.

Conclusion

The number of people on stage during a Broadway show can range significantly based on the type of production and the show's specific needs. While plays might feature smaller casts, focusing on the spoken word, musicals often require a larger number of performers to execute the intricate choreography and singing. Understanding these differences can provide valuable insights into the world of Broadway and enhance the enjoyment of live theater.

Key Takeaways

The size of the cast can vary greatly, from as few as 2 to over 40 performers in a Broadway show. Musicals typically require larger cast sizes to accommodate singing, dancing, and complex roles. Factors such as choreography, role requirements, and support roles influence the final number of performers on stage.

Keywords

Broadway show musical cast size

Related Topics

The History of Broadway Shows Guide to Booking Broadway Show Tickets The Best Broadway Musicals of All Time