Watch Broadway or Bust

Broadway or Bust is a three-part docu-series that first aired on PBS in 2012. The show follows dozens of talented high school students from across the United States as they compete in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, also known as the Jimmy Awards. The series begins with auditions held in multiple cities, where the students showcase their singing, dancing, and acting abilities for a chance to make it to the finals in New York City. The panel of judges includes renowned theater professionals such as choreographer Kiesha Lalama and producer Van Kaplan, who provide feedback and guidance throughout the competition. Once in New York City, the students spend 10 days rehearsing and preparing for the final performance, where they will showcase their skills in various musical numbers. They also attend workshops led by Broadway veterans, such as Leslie Odom Jr. from Hamilton, who offer insight into the industry and share their own experiences. Throughout the series, the audience gets to know the students and their families, as well as witness the intense competition and the emotional highs and lows that come with it. The stakes are high, as the winner of the competition receives a scholarship to a prestigious theater program. In addition to the competition, the show also explores the broader issues of diversity and representation in the theater industry. The students come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and the show highlights the challenges they face in navigating a predominantly white and privileged industry. Ultimately, Broadway or Bust is a celebration of the next generation of theater professionals and their dedication to their craft. The show offers a unique glimpse into the competitive world of musical theater and the hard work and dedication required to make it on Broadway.