In 1976, an unknown actor made an independent movie about a struggling boxer who gets a shot to go the distance. Sylvester Stallone’s “Rocky” went on to win an Oscar for Best Picture and became an anthem for the City of Brotherly Love. It seems that the endearing Rocky Balboa will be making his Great White Way debut in New York in February at the Winter Garden Theater (yes, the theater that hosted “Cats” and “Mamma Mia”).
Apollo, Mickey and Adrian are back too. Stallone himself is a producer. While there is no starring character officially from Philly, Andy Karl, who plays Rocky, hails from Baltimore (kinda close) and appeared in “Jersey Boys.” He also starred in “9 to 5” and “Legally Blonde” on Broadway.
The show has been in Europe but is finally coming to Broadway. Previews begin Feb. 11 and opening night is March 13. For tickets and information, visit rockybroadway.com.
More Broadway
In addition to our favorite hometown hero making his great debut on Broadway, Disney continues to repurpose its popular films and will introduce “Aladdin.” It will feature all of the film’s favorite songs and new music too. People may remember Clifton Davis, formerly head of Philadelphia’s Welcome America, who plays Sultan. Previews begin Feb. 26 and opening night is March 20. Visit aladdinthemusical.com.
There are lots of great shows on Broadway and off-Broadway. It is time to catch up on “The Book of Mormon,” “Chicago,” “The Blue Man Group,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Rock of Ages” and more.
As any gay Broadway diehard fan knows, Philadelphia’s own Andrea McArdle originated the role of Annie on Broadway in 1977. It is a timeless story and everyone loves the show but, earlier this month, the show closed on Broadway after 487 performances.
Broadway Week
Broadway Week will return this winter with two-for-one theater tickets to 26 Broadway shows — more than ever before. The promotion runs from Jan. 21-Feb. 6. Grab your discount tickets at nycgo.com/broadwayweek.
Stay in NYC
It is easy to head to New York City for a show with Amtrak or Bolt Bus. But it is even more fun to stay overnight.
Loews Regency Hotel in New York opened Jan. 16 Loews is reopening the flagship property after $100-million renovations, including the addition of a new restaurant and what the PR teams say is a state-of-the-art salon and spa. The redesign of the 379-room hotel is in the heart of Midtown Manhattan on Park Avenue. The hotel also comes with Park Avenue prices, but a new hotel in NYC is priceless! Get in quick.
Visit www.loewshotels.com.
Jeff Guaracino is the author of “Gay and Lesbian Tourism: The Essential Guide for Marketing.”