Broadway theaters are known for putting on world-class performances. But facility-related emergencies at the Eugene O’Neill theater and the Gershwin theater left many fleeing.
Earlier this month, the Eugene O’Neill theater which has been the home to The Book of Mormon caught fire, canceling performances for an extended period of time. According to People, the FDNY responded to a three-alarm fire that began in an electrical room between the fourth and fifth floors of the theater. During a press conference, assistant chief David Simms said the crews conducted a search and were able to put out the initial flames. However, additional flames were discovered between the fifth floor and the roof.
Due to the nature of the theater, the flames were difficult to extinguish. Crews had to navigate the facility’s catwalks, rigging and electrical infrastructure. There was substantial damage to the electrical room, which houses lighting equipment and chandeliers, as well as water and smoke damage throughout the venue. However, the damage will not be visible to audience members. The Book of Mormon will resume performances on May 21.
Less than a mile down the road from the Eugene O’Neill, the Gershwin theater, which has housed Wicked for the last 20 years, made headlines this week as an escalator function injured 11 kids and one adult.
According to CBS News, after a matinee performance of the Broadway show, the electrical escalator malfunctioned when a child’s shoelace got stuck. Witnesses said that the escalator suddenly jolted after an emergency stop button was pushed and threw people forward. Three people were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries.
"The safety and security of our patrons is our highest priority at the Gershwin Theatre. Nederlander has been in contact with the New York City Department of Buildings and our maintenance partners. We are committed to ensuring our safety protocols are rigorously followed so our guests can continue to enjoy their experience at the theater with complete peace of mind," said a statement on behalf of The Nederlander Organization, which operates the Gershwin Theatre.
Mackenna Moralez is the managing editor of the facilities market and the host of the Facilities in Focus podcast.
