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A new documentary titled Playing the Palace is set to chronicle the storied past and recent renovations of Broadway’s iconic Palace Theatre. The film, hosted by journalist Frank DiLella and directed by Cody Williams, will be available for streaming starting May 13 at 6 p.m. ET on ALL ARTS, with a television broadcast slated for 9 p.m. ET on PBS.
The documentary explores the Palace Theatre’s journey from its vaudeville origins to its current state following a significant renovation. The theatre has long been a celebrated venue for iconic performers, with entertainers such as Judy Garland, Bob Hope, and Liza Minnelli stepping onto its stage. Interviews with co-owners James L. Nederlander and Stewart F. Lane, as well as other notable figures including Bernadette Peters and Ben Platt, provide insight into the theatre’s enduring legacy.
Using a blend of archival performance footage and commentary from Broadway veterans, the documentary tracks the venue’s evolution, highlighting the extensive $2.5 billion redevelopment project that not only preserved its historical significance but also elevated the structure 30 feet above Times Square.
Since its opening in 1913, performing at the Palace Theatre has been regarded as a pinnacle achievement for many artists. Once the leading venue for vaudeville in the United States, the Palace became synonymous with success in the entertainment world. A host of celebrity icons, including Ethel Merman and Diana Ross, have graced its stage.
In 1965, James M. Nederlander transformed the theatre into a legitimate venue with the debut of Sweet Charity, starring Gwen Verdon. Over the years, it has hosted numerous celebrated productions, including Applause featuring Lauren Bacall and Man of La Mancha with Richard Kiley. The theatre became home to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in 1994, followed by Aida. Currently, it is showcasing Glengarry Glen Ross, which adds to its rich lineup of notable performances.
In related news, supermodel Ashley Graham is making her Broadway debut as “Roxie Hart” in the acclaimed musical Chicago, which is now the longest-running American musical in Broadway history. With its dazzling narrative set in the jazz-infused 1920s, Chicago tells the story of a housewife and aspiring dancer who resorts to murder to escape the consequences of her actions, highlighting societal themes that resonate even today.
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www.broadwayworld.com