🚨 Is Broadway about to have its “Recession Pop” moment?
History has shown us that when times get tough—when the economy wobbles and the world feels uncertain—people turn to entertainment that makes them feel good. We saw it in pop music during the last recession (hello: Gaga, Ke$ha, and Katy Perry). And Broadway?
When times get tough, people crave something that makes them feel good.
And guess what? Broadway is no different.
Look at what’s happening in 2025 . . .
✅ Mamma Mia! is dancing back to Broadway after 25 years.
✅ A Hairspray revival is heavily rumored (and would be perfect right now).
✅ Death Becomes Her is bringing camp, comedy, and big Broadway magic.
We’ve also got Operation Mincemeat, Smash, and Oh Mary!. And Big Stars like Audra McDonald, Denzel Washington, Idina Menzel, Jake Gyllenhaal, and more.
So, in today’s world—where politics are polarizing, prices are climbing, and people are searching for Joy (pun intended 😉)—could we be on the edge of another Broadway Boom? One where audiences are looking to laugh, dance, and escape for two and a half hours (and some would argue – maybe 90 minutes?)
What do you think? Are we witnessing Broadway’s version of Recession Pop?
FULL DISCLOSURE: I had no idea what Recession Pop was until my Assistant, Annie Mallamaci, explained it to me – so thanks for the inspiration, Annie. And takeaway for all of you? Keep yourself surrounded with people much cooler, hipper and younger than you.
Podcasting
Ken created one of the first Broadway podcasts, recording over 250 episodes over 7 years. It features interviews with A-listers in the theater about how they “made it”, including 2 Pulitzer Prize Winners, 7 Academy Award Winners and 76 Tony Award winners. Notable guests include Pasek & Paul, Kenny Leon, Lynn Ahrens and more.