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:
January 11, 2026
StoryCourse, a storytelling platform and performance series, has built its work around helping people shape and share personal narratives. During the pandemic, those stories continued—adapted to Zoom, livestreams, and virtual audiences.
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.
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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