Broadway is often celebrated for its artistry, but behind every production is a sophisticated business model that transforms creative vision into a sustainable enterprise.

In this episode of Sue Gilad: Curtain Call Conversations, Sue Gilad takes listeners behind the financial curtain of Broadway to explore how productions are funded, managed, and positioned for long-term success. Drawing on her experience as part of the producing team of The Outsiders and co-producing Moulin Rouge! The Musical, she explains the realities of raising investment capital, managing production budgets, balancing financial risk, and building shows that can thrive far beyond opening night.

Sue also examines the many revenue streams that shape Broadway's economic landscape—from ticket sales and touring to licensing, cast recordings, merchandise, streaming, and international productions. More importantly, she explores why artistic excellence and commercial success are not competing priorities, but complementary forces that allow great stories to reach audiences around the world.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, creative professional, theatre enthusiast, or business leader, this episode offers an insider's perspective on leadership, innovation, strategic decision-making, and the business behind one of the world's most influential creative industries.

In this episode:

• How Broadway productions are financed and capitalized
• What investors consider before backing a show
• The economics of weekly operating costs and box office performance
• Revenue beyond Broadway through touring, licensing, streaming, and merchandise
• How successful productions become long-term global brands
• Why artistic vision and commercial strategy succeed together

For additional information about Sue Gilad's work and initiatives: https://suegilad.com

https://suzannegilad.org

What does it really take to bring a Broadway production from a single idea to opening night?

In this episode of Sue Gilad: Curtain Call Conversations, Sue Gilad takes listeners behind the scenes of one of the world's most complex creative processes. Drawing on her experience as a Broadway producer and co-producer, she explores how stories evolve through years of development—from the first script reading and creative workshops to out-of-town tryouts, technical rehearsals, previews, and opening night.

Featuring insights from productions including The Outsiders, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, and Buena Vista Social Club, Sue reveals how writers, directors, designers, choreographers, musicians, performers, and producers collaborate to transform an idea into a live theatrical experience. She also shares the lessons every creative leader can learn about collaboration, persistence, innovation, and trusting the creative process.

Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, entrepreneur, creative professional, or simply curious about what happens before the curtain rises, this episode offers a rare look inside the remarkable journey from page to stage.

In this episode:

• How Broadway productions begin and evolve over time
• The purpose of readings, workshops, and creative development
• Why out-of-town tryouts and previews are essential
• The collaboration behind Broadway's biggest productions
• What happens during technical rehearsals and opening night
• Lessons in creativity, leadership, and bringing ambitious ideas to life

For additional information about Sue Gilad's work and initiatives: https://suegilad.com

https://suzannegilad.org

What happens inside the human brain when a live performance captures our attention, stirs our emotions, and connects us to complete strangers?

In this episode of Sue Gilad: Curtain Call Conversations, Sue Gilad explores the fascinating science behind empathy, storytelling, and human connection. Drawing on research from neuroscience, psychology, and live performance studies, she examines how theatre influences the brain, strengthens social bonds, and creates shared experiences that can reduce loneliness, deepen understanding, and foster compassion.

From mirror neurons and neural coupling to the chemistry of storytelling and the unique power of live audiences, Sue reveals why theatre remains one of the most effective tools for helping people understand one another. She also reflects on her experiences with productions such as The Outsiders, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, and Buena Vista Social Club, offering a producer's perspective on the transformative moments that occur when storytelling truly resonates.

At a time when social isolation and division continue to shape modern life, this episode explores why live theatre is more than entertainment—it is a powerful technology of human connection.

In this episode:

• The neuroscience behind empathy and storytelling
• How mirror neurons help audiences connect with characters
• The role of oxytocin, emotion, and narrative engagement
• Why live performance creates stronger social bonds than screens
• Research on audience synchronization and shared experiences
• How theatre can reduce loneliness and encourage understanding

For additional information about Sue Gilad’s work and initiatives: www.suegilad.com

www.suzannegilad.org