Broadway’s ‘Swept Away’ Extends Run After Announcing Closing, Citing “Unprecedented Demand”

As a seasoned gamer and musical enthusiast who has seen more than a few Broadway shows come and go, I must admit that the recent turn of events surrounding “Swept Away” has left me utterly astounded. The tale of survival against all odds is not uncommon in the world of gaming or theater, but the resilience displayed by this production is something I’ve rarely witnessed in my lifetime.

The Broadway production of “Swept Away” musical has been extended and will continue until December 29th, according to the producers’ recent statement. This decision is due to an increase in ticket demand since it was first announced that the show would be closing this week.

Originally slated to end after just 32 regular performances, musical Swept Away, which is accompanied by music from The Avett Brothers, had its final day set for Dec. 15. However, due to high ticket demand, actor Stark Sands announced during a performance on Dec. 11 that the show would continue running until the end of December.

“The story we tell is about the will to survive against incredible odds,” Sands told the crowd. “Last week it was announced that Swept Away would be closing and then, something happened. We came to work the next day, and we walked out to a completely sold-out house. And then the next day it happened again and then it happened again…I’ve never seen it before; we’ve never felt this… So I am pleased to announce that Swept Away will be extending for two more weeks. The run is now going until Dec. 29.”

A press release sent after Sands’ announcement called the ticket sales “unprecedented demand.”

The show, about a shipwreck and the crew’s struggle to survive in its aftermath, received a Critic’s Pick from the New York Times but mixed reviews elsewhere. The musical began previews on Broadway on Oct. 29 and opened at the Longacre Theatre on Tuesday, Nov. 19.

The two-week extension provides a glimmer of hope amidst persistent news about excessive operating expenses on Broadway, making it tough to sustain struggling productions like Elton John’s recent musical, Tammy Faye, which ended its run on Dec. 8, having opened just on Nov. 14.

On February 7, 2025, the digital version of the Broadway cast recording for the musical “Swept Away,” penned by The Avett Brothers, will be available. This show is produced by Brian Usifer, Chris Miller, Will Van Dyke, and Madison Wells Live.

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2024-12-11 08:24