Cost Analysis - High production costs are a major challenge for Broadway shows, driven by union labor with strong protections, especially post-pandemic [1] - Theater rent constitutes a single-digit percentage of ticket sales, adding to the significant base costs [2] - Sets and marketing expenses further contribute to the prohibitive base level needed to recoup investment [2] Investment and Returns - Play budgets on Broadway range from 6 million to 10 million USD, while musicals cost 20 million to 25 million USD [3] - The pursuit of runaway hits like "Hamilton" and "Wicked" justifies the risk, despite 80% of shows failing to recoup their investment [3] Industry Dynamics - The economic realities are changing the theater business, impacting tourism, art, and ticket prices [4]