Jill Furman, an award-winning theatrical producer known for her work on Broadway hits like "Hamilton" and "In The Heights," shares her insights into the theater industry. She discusses the challenges of securing investors in a landscape where 80% of projects fail to recoup their costs. Jill delves into the balance between original productions and adaptations, emphasizing the creative process and the importance of star power. She highlights how innovative elements in musicals can resonate with audiences, while also reflecting on her selective approach to future projects.
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The Producer's Role
Broadway producers oversee all aspects of a show, from fundraising and casting to marketing and closing decisions.
They balance artistic vision with financial realities, making producing "the art of saying yes judiciously and no politely."
question_answer ANECDOTE
"SUFFS": A Decade-Long Journey
Jill Furman discusses the development of "SUFFS," a musical about the suffragists, from its inception in 2014 to its Broadway debut in 2024.
The show's journey involved workshops, partnerships with theaters, revisions based on feedback, and a decade-long timeline.
insights INSIGHT
The Risky Business of Broadway
Broadway productions are financially risky, with 80% not recouping their initial investment.
Despite this, investors are drawn to the industry's allure and the potential for significant returns, exemplified by "Hamilton."
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There’s a phrase that’s common among those in the theater industry: You can’t make a living, but you can make a killing.
Jill Furman is a theatrical producer and winner of multiple Tony awards. She’s part of the team that brought breakout successes “Hamilton” and “In The Heights” to Broadway. Mary Long caught up with Jill for a conversation about:
- Pitching investors to back shows even when 80% of projects don’t recoup their initial investment.
- Working on original projects versus those based on existing stories.
- The formula for commercially successful musicals.