Broadway's Brightest Stars Gather for Variety's Business of Broadway Breakfast

The Night Before the Curtain Call

As the theater world gears up for another spectacular season, Variety's Business of Broadway Breakfast is poised to become the most talked-about pre-show event of the year. Taking place on October 5 in New York City, this annual gathering will bring together the brightest stars and sharpest minds in Broadway to discuss the forces shaping theater today.

"City National Bank is proud to bring together Broadway's best and brightest to discuss the forces shaping theater today," said JaHan Wang, head of Entertainment & Sports Banking. "As the leading bank to Broadway, we look forward to helping the community flourish for years to come."

The star-studded lineup includes Rachel Zegler, whose portrayal of Eva Perón in the upcoming musical "Evita" is already generating buzz. Joining her will be James Olivas for a keynote conversation that promises insights into the production's journey from concept to stage.

What's at Stake: The Sorkin Sensation

Aaron Sorkin, the mastermind behind classics like "The West Wing" and "A Few Good Men," is set to make a powerful appearance. His theater adaptation of the 1992 film will be revived at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater on October 8. The evening's program will feature Sorkin alongside Bradley Whitford, Tom Blyth, Krysta Rodriguez, and Tony Award-winning director Michael Arden.

It's no surprise that this particular event has become a cornerstone of the industry calendar. After all, what better way to set the tone for Broadway's season than with the creators and stars who make it all possible?

From Hollywood to the Stage

Tom Felton, known for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy in the "Harry Potter" series, will be hosting this year's breakfast. His return to the stage as a presenter is a testament to the enduring magic of live theater. And speaking of returning talents, we're excited to see how the industry's most celebrated performers continue to evolve.

Another highlight of the evening will be the "Dolly: A True Original Musical," opening at the St. James Theater on January 19—what would have been Dolly Parton's 81st birthday. The musical, featuring the beloved book by Maria S. Schlatter, brings Dolly Parton's legacy to life in a way that only Broadway can.

Panel Power: The Producers' Roundtable

The event's producers panel will feature Amanda Lipitz (“Galileo”), Haley Swindal (“Damn Yankees”), Susan Kelechi Watson (“School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play”), and Brian Lee (“Awake and Sing!” and “Here There Are Blueberries”). Moderated by Erik Piecuch, Senior VP/team leader of entertainment & sports banking at City National Bank, the panel will provide a behind-the-scenes look at what makes these productions tick.

This is where we get to see the real heart of Broadway—how creative visions are brought to life through the collaboration of artists, producers, and financiers. And with the addition of Variety's 10 Broadway to Watch list, we're guaranteed a look at some exciting emerging talent.

Why This Matters: The Future of Theater

What strikes me most about this year's Business of Broadway Breakfast is how it encapsulates the dynamic nature of theater itself. From the digital age's influence to the timeless power of storytelling, this event serves as a microcosm of the industry's evolution.

I've been covering entertainment for years, and one thing remains constant: when we gather around stories, we create something greater than ourselves. This is exactly what Variety's Business of Broadway Breakfast does—it brings together creators, investors, and fans to celebrate the artistry that makes theater so compelling.

"Theater coverage has been at the heart of Variety since its founding more than 120 years ago, and we are deeply honored to carry that legacy forward," said Dea Lawrence, publisher and co-president of Variety.

A Toast to Broadway's Legacy

As we look toward the upcoming season, it's clear that Broadway is not just surviving—it's thriving. With new voices, fresh perspectives, and timeless tales being told on stage, we're witnessing an era where innovation meets tradition.

The Business of Broadway Breakfast isn't just about networking or business deals; it's a celebration of creativity. It reminds us why we fell in love with theater in the first place—because every story matters, every performance counts, and every voice deserves to be heard.

Final Thoughts: What's Next for Broadway?

This year's gathering is more than just another industry event—it's a promise of what's to come. As we watch the stars who've graced our stages prepare to tell their stories, we're reminded that the magic of theater lies not in perfection but in the journey. Whether it's through a new musical, an updated classic, or an experimental production, Broadway continues to redefine itself while staying true to its roots.

In a world increasingly defined by digital interaction, events like this one offer a rare chance to connect with the human element that makes art so powerful. So here's to the next great season—may it be filled with surprise, wonder, and unforgettable moments on stage.