Aside from providing entertainment, ASU Gammage has also helped the Valley’s struggling economy with its Broadway Across America series, a program that has contributed more than $260 million to the state’s economy since its conception in 2006.
“ASU Gammage is regarded by the Broadway industry as one of the top Broadway touring roadhouses in the country,” said executive director Colleen Jennings-Roggensack. “Because of that, first run Broadway of all genres from ‘West Side Story’ to ‘Blue Man Group’ to ‘White Christmas’ want to make ASU Gammage their first stop.”
The performing arts facility relies heavily on ticket sales to support itself. However, corporate and private sponsors also contribute to its success. Gammage is arguably the best-known arts venue in the Valley because of its association with ASU.
The theater, although more successful than smaller venues, is not alone in its economic contributions.
According to a recent study by Americans for the Arts, performance arts locations in Pima and Maricopa counties contribute more than $500 million annually to Arizona’s economy.
Much of the theater’s popularity stems from the access it provides to students and families who are familiar with the theater’s convenient location, Jennings-Roggensack said.
Lorna Tialino, a pre-law senior and treasurer for the theater’s student group ASU Gammage Ambassadors, has no theater experience, but is devoted to the shows that facility puts on.
“For us Sun Devils, Gammage has literally brought Broadway to our backyard,” she said.
Tialino said she grew up watching musicals, so being able to see Broadway shows regularly while at college has made her ASU experience that much more special.
“That's the great thing about the theater,” she said. “It appeals to everyone — theater buffs and college students alike.”
The Broadway series kicks off with “West Side Story,” running from Sept. 27 through Oct. 2. Denny Daniello, company manager of the production, said the opportunity to see the classic production shouldn’t be missed.
“Audiences in the Valley will have the rare opportunity to see this groundbreaking production, based on the original direction of the late Arthur Laurents,” Daniello said. “It is a tour de force, theatrical experience created by one of Broadway’s legendary visionaries.”
Jennings-Roggensack said she believes the series will continue to be successful.
This season will also feature shows such as “Blue Man Group,” “Green Day’s American Idiot,” “Stomp” and “Wicked.”
Reach the reporter at April.Fischer@asu.edu
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