New York: Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour

Explore Broadway’s Magic with the Be A Smash! Walking Tour

The New York: Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour offers a lively and engaging look into the world of Broadway musicals inspired by the NBC series SMASH. Priced at $49 per person, this 2-hour guided experience takes you around the theatres where the fictional musicals BOMBSHELL and HIT LIST were filmed, highlighting the glamour and challenges of musical theatre production. With a perfect 5-star rating, this tour is ideal for musical theatre fans, aspiring performers, and anyone interested in Broadway’s creative process.

While the tour does not include entrance into Broadway theatres, it compensates with backstage stories, trivia, and the chance to sing your favorite show tunes along with a knowledgeable guide. This blend of theatre history, behind-the-scenes insights, and interactive fun makes it a memorable experience, especially for those who love to sing and learn about Broadway’s star-studded life.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $49 per person for a 2-hour tour
• Location: Starts at the corner of West 53rd & Broadway in front of The Broadway Theatre
• Highlights: Visit the theatres used in SMASH, learn about Broadway audition processes, and sing popular show tunes
• Experience: Led by a licensed tour guide who is also a Broadway insider
• Limitations: No inside access to Broadway theatres, but backstage stories are shared
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible cancellation options

Starting Point at The Broadway Theatre

The tour begins at the corner of West 53rd and Broadway, directly in front of the Broadway Theatre. This meeting point is easy to find, situated in the heart of Manhattan’s theatre district. From here, the guide leads the group on a walk through the area, focusing on the theatres featured in SMASH and other iconic Broadway venues.

Though you won’t go inside the theatres, the guide shares insider stories about backstage secrets and the history of the venues. This outdoor approach allows for a relaxed pace as you take in the sights and sounds of Broadway’s bustling environment.

Visiting the Theatres Filming SMASH

A key feature of this tour is the opportunity to visit the theatres where the fictional BOMBSHELL and HIT LIST musicals were filmed. These locations are noted for their connection to the show’s on-screen performances and musical scenes. The guide elaborates on how these theatres are used in the series and shares interesting behind-the-scenes stories.

This aspect makes the tour particularly appealing for SMASH fans or those curious about how television and Broadway intersect. The theatrical architecture and location history are highlighted, giving you a glimpse into the setting of the show’s musical numbers.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Broadway Trivia

Throughout the walk, the knowledgeable licensed guide shares inside stories about Broadway stars like Megan Hilty, Christian Borle, Debra Messing, Jeremy Jordan, and others. These bios offer insights into their careers and their connections to various Broadway and Off-Broadway productions.

In addition, the tour features plenty of SMASH trivia, giving fans a deeper understanding of the show’s creative process and the development of new musicals. These stories deepen the appreciation for Broadway’s artistry and the work behind a musical’s creation.

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Singing on the Tour: Step Into the Spotlight

One of the tour’s most fun elements is the chance to sing famous show stoppers alongside the guide. With licensed musical theatre guides, you’ll get the opportunity to perform and sing your favorite tunes made popular by the SMASH cast.

This interactive component is perfect for music lovers and aspiring performers, adding a lively and personal touch to the experience. Expect spontaneous jazz hands and outbursts of Broadway as everyone gets a chance to shine.

The No-Entrance Policy and Its Impact

While the tour does not include access inside Broadway theatres, it compensates with entertaining backstage stories and inside knowledge. This means that viewing the theatres from the outside allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity for personal stories from the guide.

Travelers should be aware that theatre interiors are not visited, but the rich history and theatrical architecture are still vividly explained, enriching the overall experience.

Accessibility and Flexible Cancellation

The tour is described as wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a diverse range of participants. It also offers a full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for those with flexible plans.

Booking is also easy with the “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing for flexible reservations without immediate payment.

The Guide: A Broadway Insider

The licensed tour guide not only leads the walk but also brings Broadway to life with personal stories, industry insights, and enthusiasm. The guide’s inside knowledge adds a layer of authenticity and excitement to the tour, making it both informative and entertaining.

Their ability to share backstage anecdotes and answer questions makes for a more engaging experience that appeals to both casual fans and hardcore theatre enthusiasts.

Pacing and Duration: Two Engaging Hours

The 2-hour length of the tour ensures that ample time is spent exploring without feeling rushed. Usually scheduled in the morning, the timing allows participants to incorporate it easily into a day of sightseeing around Manhattan.

The pace is relaxed enough to enjoy the stories, sing along, and take photographs of the theatre exteriors without rush.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience appeals most to SMASH fans, musical theatre enthusiasts, and aspiring performers eager to learn more about Broadway’s creative world. The interactive singing and storytelling make it particularly fun for groups, families, or anyone who loves to sing.

However, those expecting inside theatre access should be aware that this tour is outside-only, making it less suitable for visitors hoping to tour theatres’ interiors.

Final Thoughts: A Fun and Informative Broadway Snapshot

The Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour offers a unique look at Broadway and television through the lens of SMASH. Its affordable price and engaging format—including theatre visits, backstage stories, and singing opportunities—make it a delightful activity for musical theatre lovers.

While it doesn’t include inside theatre visits, the entertainment value and inside knowledge from the Broadway insider guide make this tour a worthwhile addition to any Manhattan itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who love to sing, learn, and see the Broadway area from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include inside access to Broadway theatres?
No, the tour does not include visiting the interiors of Broadway theatres, but the guide shares backstage stories and exterior views.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours and is typically available in the morning.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is at the corner of West 53rd & Broadway, in front of The Broadway Theatre.

What can I expect to do during the tour?
You’ll visit theatre exteriors, hear stories about Broadway and SMASH, learn about Broadway auditions, and sing show tunes with the guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is friendly for musical fans of all ages, especially those interested in singing and Broadway stories.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its interactive singing, theatre location visits, and a Broadway insider guide make it a fun, engaging experience for fans and performers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby