Forbidden Broadway

"Forbidden Broadway" is New York's longest-running musical comedy revue, currently celebrating its 20th anniversary with a special show. Established in 1982 by Gerard Alessandrini, it was originally devised to showcase the talents of Alessandrini and his friends, quickly evolving into a notable production known for its satirical take on Broadway's biggest shows and stars. The revue parodies well-known figures and musicals such as Yul Brenner, Barbra Streisand, Chita Rivera, "Cats," "Annie," "Fiddler on the Roof," "Les Miserables," and "Phantom of the Opera," all set to the tunes of popular Broadway songs.

The show employs a talented cast of four players—two male and two female—along with a skilled pianist, utilizing an array of costumes and props to create its signature comedic effect. "Forbidden Broadway" has not only been a career launcher for many of its performers but also a critical success, earning accolades like the Obie, Outer Critics Circle, and the 2001 Drama Desk award for best musical revue.

Currently, the revue includes "FORBIDDEN BROADWAY: SVU Special Victims Unit!", featuring spoofs of modern musicals such as “Wicked,” “Assassins,” "Thoroughly Modern Millie,” “The Lion King,” The Tony Awards, “Avenue Q” and “Hairspray,” along with parodies of celebrities like Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, and Idina Menzel. Media outlets have praised "Forbidden Broadway," with The New York Times calling it "Absolutely Hilarious!" and Time Magazine naming it "One of the Year's 10 Best." By maintaining its sharp wit and insightful commentary, "Forbidden Broadway" continues to be a staple in New York theater and a beloved part of the musical comedy landscape.