Rachel Schmaier is a journalist covering the business of Broadway. She previously worked at an advertising agency specializing in theatrical clients and is currently a product marketing manager at the Bank of New York. With experience in both business and Broadway, she offers a unique perspective into the commercialization and viability of the theatre industry. She occasionally writes reviews of Broadway shows, looking specifically for theatre that provokes self-reflection or simply provides temporary comedic relief - and the two are not mutually exclusive. Rachel is a graduate of Northwestern University.
Favorite Stories:
The Economics of a Broadway Transfer
May 26, 2025
May 26, 2025
When a show becomes a breakout hit in London’s West End, the next step often seems obvious — transfer it to Broadway. But the leap across the pond isn’t always as easy as it seems to be; along with the transition’s obvious logistics, this shift can cause changes in theatrical ecosystems, audience expectations, and economic realities.
Curtains Fall at the Kennedy Center: What Is Trump Doing and Why?
March 12, 2025
March 12, 2025
The recent upheaval at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, following President Donald Trump's self-appointment as chairman, has sent shockwaves through the arts community. This unprecedented move has led to significant administrative changes, program cancellations, and a broader debate about the intersection of politics and cultural institutions.
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