For the third time in October, ”MJ” broke its house record at the Neil Simon Theatre. The jukebox musical grossed $1,810,272 — besting its previous record of $1,777,138 — and played to 100% capacity.
“The Kite Runner” had its most profitable week as it concluded its Broadway run on Oct. 30. The production grossed $431,556, up 13%, and played to 84% capacity, up 11%. Plans have been announced for a 2024 national tour.
For the week ending Oct. 30, the 31 Broadway productions grossed $27,346,822, down 4%, and played to 85% capacity, down 6%.
“The Music Man,” “Hamilton” and “MJ” were the three highest-grossing productions for the second week in a row.
Only eight of the 31 shows played to 95% or greater capacity. Meanwhile, 12 productions played to less than 80% capacity, which highlights a growing disparity in well-attended and less-attended shows as the fall season continues.
“Beetlejuice,” “Chicago” and “Into the Woods” each saw double-digit dips in capacity last week. The three musicals were among the 25 total productions that suffered overall attendance decreases.
“Cost of Living” was one of the only productions to see increases in both gross and attendance despite having one fully comped student matinée. In its penultimate week on Broadway, Martyna Majok’s Pulitzer-winning play earned $263,193, up .6%, and played to 76% capacity, up 7%.
“The Piano Lesson” also enjoyed a strong week at the box office. The play revival saw its highest-grossing week yet, earning $918,748, up .4%, and played to 85% capacity, up 2%.
”& Juliet,” “Take Me Out” and “Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man & the Pool” all began previews last week. “Almost Famous,” “Kimberly Akimbo” and “KPOP” each remained in their respective preview periods. “Walking With Ghosts” opened on Oct. 27.
