Question for the theatre goers... (Driving Miss Daisy)

[woodstock]

Hello all

Is there any reason to believe the very last show of a Broadway run would be a little more special than the other ones? For instance, the actors coming out to talk to the audience afterwards, or whatever?

I am going to make a day trip to NYC soon with friends to see Vanessa Redgrave and James Earl Jones on stage... we are trying to sort out dates. Right now the only dates we are both free are March 19 and April 9 - the last day.

This would potentially be a tie breaker.

I doubt it would be the case, but thought I'd ask if there is anything customary like this at all.

Many thanks.

 

[flyersfan31]

That's one of those "you never know" scenarios.

IMHO -- there's no downside. Mayhaps it happens, mayhaps it don't. Me? I'd take the chance.

 

[fgcason]

It's not particularly customary yet not out of the question either. It really depends on what the producers want in the way of publicity/post show reception and the effect on the audience they're going for. I've been involved in a few larger, as well as smaller, shows where they wanted the actors in the lobby (out of costume) asap and others where no one is allowed to cross the magic line until the last audience member leaves the building.

IMHO: Go since it's the last chance you'll get. Don't be in a big hurry to leave afterward. Don't expect actors to be in costume. If they're out they'll probably be somewhere semi-obvious though you may have to keep an eye out for them.

Do not expect any changes in the actual show itself. That's something that just isn't done.

 

[murphey]

Often you'll see a small crowd outside the stage door (yes, there are still stage doors except at the Marquis where the theatre is on the xxx? floor and not at street level).
If the actors are gracious, they'll stop and sign programs. Some do, some don't.

 

[Lawreston]

As has been noted, it's a Director's call; and if it's allowed, for certain - out of costume. And that, in itself, can have personal rewards.
My experience has always been -- over 100 productions -- that our companies bust hump to get out of costume, clear the makeup, into street clothes, and mingle.
And when introduced, by a fellow cast member, to a theater patron and be told, "Seeing you now, I never would have believed you were that character," that is the supreme compliment. Photos, below, are from OKLAHOMA: Farmer Andrew Carnes. Of course, we only play for two or three weeks.

If I were you I'd take a shot at the last performance

HR

 

[Lawreston]

The real heartbreak is striking the show, but there's the cast party.

Then, saying "Good-bye, and Lights Out.

HR

 

[woodstock]

Got the tix. Last show. We shall see!