New York
The Best of Theater in New York
Program No. 11921RJ
From Broadway to Off-Broadway to behind the scenes of Broadway, dive deep into the world of New York theater as you take in three performances and meet with theater professionals.
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Participant Reviews
Based on 68 Reviews
SHOWING
During the first introductions, someone said this was their third time attending The Best of Theater in NYC. I quickly learned why. If you enjoy theater, this is the program for you. My expectations were wildly exceeded. Our group leader Stephen was extremely knowledgeable, and his enthusiasm was contagious. Every speaker was outstanding as was every performance we attended (a play, a musical, an off Broadway musical). It was so fun to have an actor speak to us and then see him in the show that evening. The amount of free time was perfect and I recommend buying tickets at TKTS to see an additional show on the evening after your matinee. My friend and I stayed an extra night and saw one more performance on that night. I have learned so much about every aspect of writing, producing, directing, and performing in a play. I even learned to look up and appreciate the exterior of the theaters. I, too, will repeat this program. Hope to see you there!
— Review left April 28, 2025
What a splendid program for those of you who like quality theater and might enjoy getting behind the curtain to learn from experts. Our primary guide, Stephen, no shrinking violet, he, was outstanding. He led in-depth discussions on the history and creative aspects of writing and producing Broadway and off-Broadway productions. In true theatrical style he kept us wanting more but unlike performers, he kept giving us more! His information about the history of specific theaters was insightful and fun. Is there anything he doesn't know? He made sure every question was answered and even made sure he sat at every table at least once during our meals together so we could all talk informally with him.
His discussion partner, Dan, filled in on production business details and worked all of us into his conversations as if we were part of his presentations.
These two were assisted by their colleague, Grace, who kept the group together as we wandered the theater district and she proved to be our best friend in NYC. We saw three different styles of plays, including one off-Broadway and were favored by an hour-long meeting with one of the primary actors in the production we saw later the same day. What an experience!
The food opportunities were wonderful (Lunch at Sardi's!) and varied and the theater district walk added much to our brimming basket of history.
The hotel was in the perfect location for easy walks to our various venues and equally well located for our individual sightseeing wanderings when we enjoyed NYC on our own. The subway was right across the street.
If you wish to immerse yourself in Broadway theater, eat well and have fun, this program is for you. Break a leg!
— Review left April 22, 2025
This is a remarkable program.
I will repeat it!
— Review left April 12, 2025
This was by far the best Road Scholar program I have participated in to date (of three). Informative, fun, entertaining.
— Review left April 7, 2025
It was a wonderful experience of a lifetime for me. Road Scholar made things so easy for me to enjoy the trip and provided educational opportunities to learn about New York, the theater, Broadway, etc.
— Review left December 21, 2024
The discussions before and after the plays(shows) helped me to better understand and appreciate how they were written as well as performed.
— Review left December 21, 2024
Stephen was an excellent host and was knowledgeable of NY. The restaurant choices were not the best. For future trips take groups to nicer restaurants. Take Juniors out of the agenda! The folks that booked these trips want to eat at better/nicer places. Why do we have to meet at the hotel's basement conference room when there's so many other nicer places to go????
— Review left December 7, 2024
I enjoyed the program. I learned so much about the history of the theater on Broadway and beyond.
— Review left December 7, 2024
Great and amazingly professional program! Exceeded all my expectations!
— Review left November 25, 2024
It was fantastic! I knew I’d like the tour, but I LOVED it!
— Review left November 11, 2024
This trip was packed with adventure. We took an informative walking tour of Broadway, attending an experimental play, a drama and the musical, The Great Gatsby. We attended lectures by directors and producers, as well as the lead actor in The Great Gatsby.
We ate fabulous meals, particularly lunch at Sardi's, the famed theater-district restaurant. Our accommodations were in the heart of Times Square. Safe and comfortable.
The tour director and guides were informative, flexible and engaging.
Most of the participants were seniors, with the exception of two young woman who enjoyed interacting with us.
A terrific trip.
Thank you.
— Review left October 30, 2024
We did this program six years ago and Stephen Cole and Daniel Egan were the hosts. It was, again, a pleasure to spend a few hours listening to them unpack the levels of a Broadway show. The three women from different sides of Broadway production were also illuminating. We liked the variety in the plays we saw and the good spirits of everyone in the group.
— Review left October 12, 2024
Very interesting and enjoyable program.
— Review left October 12, 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed this program. We learned so much about how shows get to Broadway and how to look at shows through different lenses...like how set design contributes to the underlying themes of a show...that it takes many years for a show get go from conception to completion and then to appear on Broadway. All fascinating.
— Review left October 2, 2024
The NYC Theater program is a fabulous choice if you enjoy meeting interesting people, and participating in thought provoking, fun activities!
— Review left June 25, 2024
This is a terrific program even for those who are not theater buffs. Where else do you get the opportunity to meet a playwright and then see the play after getting a tour of Broadway, meet an actress then see her in an award-winning production followed by lunch at Sardi's? It's a once in a lifetime exposure to a different way of life that is truly an eye opener led by energetic, fun people.
— Review left June 24, 2024
The Broadway Theater program is a treasure trove of rich experiences! Live shows, fascinating conversations with a playwright, actor, and experts, tours of the theater district with someone who knows the history of each theater and the Broadway scene more generally. Couldn't have asked for more in our short visit. Our days and nights were filled with light, sound, music, good food, and just enough free time to rest and plan one event on our own.
— Review left June 16, 2024
This was an excellent program. The plays and speakers were both entertaining and thought provoking. The lectures and facilitated discussions enhanced my experience of the plays themselves and gave me a much more in-depth understanding of both theatrics itself and how professional Broadway theater works. And being guided around the Times Square area so I wouldn’t get lost was a big bonus.
— Review left May 25, 2024
Theater education, good food, new sights and 3 plays in about 4 days and it was my first Road Scholar trip, and I loved it
— Review left May 6, 2024
A Well-organized program with dynamic, professional and highly informed instructors -lecturers- group leaders. Conveniently located accommodations and restaurants. Great selection of Broadway shows. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
— Review left March 30, 2024
In March 2024, I attended the Best of Theatre in New York program. Our leaders Steve and Grace were excellent as were all of our speakers. I am reminded again of how important my fellow travelers are to my experience, too. Since I travel alone, I am thankful for the wonderful people whom I encountered on this trip. If you want to learn about Broadway while seeing three, varied shows and enjoying meals at superior NYC restaurants with friendly folks, this is a great travel choice for you.
— Review left March 25, 2024
The Best of Theatre in New York program is a fascinating and entertaining program for theatre-goers. The two primary hosts we had were quite a contrast to one another, and both really enjoyable. One leader was a stellar storyteller and effusively energetic, the other calmly did a terrific job leading discussions and interviewing experts. The experts, a director, a producer, and an actor, were all wonderful personalities and very informative. The plays we were presented were all good for someone with eclectic tastes like me. The Off-Broadway play might have been overly disturbing for some. but the other two plays were terrific choices for all, I thought. The Hampton Inn Times Square was very pleasant except that the hotel breakfasts were terrible - even though the hotel breakfast is included, you might want to consider going out on your own a couple of mornings. The non-hotel meals that were included were all good, and a couple were absolutely superb.
— Review left March 25, 2024
The Theater program exceeded my expectations in so many ways. I LOVED it!!!! It is without reservations that I highly recommend this program.
— Review left March 24, 2024
This was my 22nd RS trip and certainly the best domestic one. The plays were well-chosen; the tour leader, Stephen Cole, was marvelous. The hotel was well-located near Times Square but away from the noise. Meals were excellent. After a lunch at Sardi's, we came back for a drink at the bar after an evening play. Note: bar closes at 11:00 p.m.
Everything was nearby. If you have trouble walking, you can still do this trip. Five stars!
— Review left March 20, 2024
What a wonderful trip led by Stephen Cole who is so knowledgeable and enthusiastic about Broadway! Listening to the experts in their field was fascinating. We had a wonderful group of people too. If you have any doubts, don't and just go - it's very worthwhile. I can see repeating this in another year or two.
— Review left March 18, 2024
IF YOU LOVE NEW YORK AND THEATER, THIS IS THE PROGRAM FOR YOU!!!!
— Review left March 4, 2024
The Road Scholar "Best of Broadway" tour is a fun and educational experience. It was wonderful being in touch with so many others who love the theater. I highly recommend it.
— Review left February 27, 2024
Second time attending the NYC Broadway program. Enjoyed the shows, but Dan and Steven make the adventure. So many Road Scholar trips to try, but will be on this a third time.
— Review left February 24, 2024
This program is a great introduction to theatre in NYC. The discussions with Dan Egan and the thoughtful comments of many participants really enhanced my appreciation of the plays we saw. Steven Cole is a delightful group leader, full of life and fun and so knowledgeable about NY theatre and the history of many of the theatres. Sign up, don’t hesitate!
— Review left February 24, 2024
The speakers' extensive background in theater greatly enhanced our group's overall experience. Several attendees had attended this program more than once as the plays change over time. Highly recommend experiencing the NY theater through this program!
— Review left December 6, 2023
Learn about Broadway and off-Broadway theater from insiders while seeing a variety of productions and hearing stories that only insiders can tell.
— Review left December 1, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed our Broadway theater experience. We saw a variety of shows, Flex, The Cottage and Some Like It Hot, and the speakers were very informative and helped add to our knowledge about Broadway in general and enjoyment of specific shows we were seeing. Stephen Cole is amazing and great fun. The hotel was convenient and comfortable with breakfast included. Diverse restaurant selection. I plan to do this trip again in the future.
— Review left August 19, 2023
I love this program and would encourage others with an interest in live theatre to attend. You will not be disappointed!
— Review left May 6, 2023
If you like theater, and want to both get the experience(s), and insight to what it takes to make it happen this program needs to be part of your plan. A totally entertaining and informative week.
— Review left May 6, 2023
If NYC seems too intimidating an adventure to you, gather up your courage and sign up for this program. It's terrific, safe, and you'll never regret it.
— Review left April 27, 2023
This trip was extraordinary! The food, the people, the leaders, the shows, the shows, the shows!!!
— Review left April 16, 2023
Truly an in depth experience, way more informative, fun and thought provoking than we ever imagined - well paced, a wonderfully busy few days.
— Review left March 25, 2023
Amazing week in New York in an immersive Broadway experience—plays, musicals, off-Broadway productions, coupled with talks with directors, producers, actors, plus historical tour of the theater district and a visit to the new Museum of Broadway. The leaders Stephen Cole and Daniel Egan are the best. Their knowledge and passion for theater is contagious. This experience was more than a blast. I learned a ton! We will definitely do this trip again!!
— Review left February 19, 2023
The Best of NYC Theatre Tour Feb 2023 was my first Road Scholar tour and I ABSOLUTELY loved it. I always wanted to see plays on Broadway and this was a trio of a lifetime for me for a treat to myself for my 60th birthday and Road Scholar did not disappoint. Stephen Cole, our group leader was extremely funny, but very knowledgeable and passionate about Broadway at the same time, I will be booking this tour again.
— Review left February 18, 2023
This program is fantastic. The energy of New York City and Broadway is exemplified with this program. The shows, the quality of restaurants, and the lectures give participants the experience of really seeing "the behind the scenes."
— Review left December 19, 2022
This was a wonderful trip! Stephen Cole was lively, engaging, and talented. The entire trip could not have gone any smoother. All of the speakers/experts were so impressive and knowledgeable, as well as interesting. One of the plays we saw was not a favorite for me, quite the opposite. But the leaders talked about this and I’m glad we saw it. Now I understand that all art forms are art, weather or not I like it. I have a new appreciation for theater. Some participants were repeaters of this program, and I will definitely be as well!
— Review left October 22, 2022
We certainly could have found some plays and accommodations on our own. But Road Scholars adds so much value in their knowledge, their presentations and leadership. We learned what goes in to getting a play from the book to the stage from the people that actually do the work and know the business.
— Review left October 16, 2022
Excellent week! Learned so much about Broadway and behind the scenes. How it all works!
— Review left October 10, 2022
The trip was well planned and organized. I like the selection of each performance. I would go again in the near future.
— Review left October 10, 2022
I've wanted to take the Road Scholar program, "Behind the Velvet Curtain" for a long time and it was beyond my expectations.As with all Road Scholar programs, the leader and speakers were phenomenal! This leader, Stephen Cole, was so out-going and passionate and knowledgeable and talented and all the other speakers were also fabulous. I really learned about the job of a director, producer and actor and how, if their lucky, a play ends up on Broadway. I already have recommended this program to many of my friends!
— Review left September 6, 2022
If you are interested in Broadway, this program captures the beauty of the city, the people and, of course, Broadway. Not only do they provide the experiences of Broadway, they also provide an excellent foundation to understand and enjoy the excitement of Broadway.
— Review left July 25, 2022
Loved the program. Provided a new experience to my theatre enjoyment. Loved the location of the hotel right in the middle of the theatre district. Wonderful opportunity to enjoy Manhatten and feel safe.
— Review left June 29, 2022
This trip is well worth the price for all that you see and learn. It was very entertaining and the food choices were very good. Excellent guide/hosts...
— Review left June 20, 2022
This is a great opportunity to experience Broadway from the inside with the help of experts. This is a great trip to consider bringing a young adult with you. There is so much to see and enjoy that everyone has a good time.
— Review left June 18, 2022
I really enjoyed the trip and learned a lot about life behind the scenes of Broadway.
— Review left May 15, 2022
Go on this tour; it was spectacular. We are independent travelers and only went on the Best of Theater program because of friends that have gone; we are so glad we did. The plays and musicals are very good, the staff and presentations are over the top great. The group size was perfect and we were told we were in one of the larger groups. Do not miss this; it was fun, educational, entertaining, comfortable.
— Review left May 14, 2022
This is a good program for education about the theatre and well organized for the individual traveler.
— Review left April 4, 2022
If you have any interest in the theatre, this trip is a perfect way to indulge that interest, learn a lot, and enjoy superb and fascinating performances in a deeper way after learning much through terrific lectures. Stephen, our group leader was great in every respect....conscientious, caring, hilarious, knowledgeable, sympatico. The food was very good too and the camaraderie spot on. It’s a great trip.
— Review left December 6, 2021
Simply wonderful program, Stephen and Dan are warm, knowledgeable, and fun program leaders. Actually, they are beyond knowledgeable and freely share their knowledge and enthusiasm about the theater,
— Review left October 15, 2021
Our group of 4 had a 6hr flight delay & although I texted (no response btw) the contact listed in our pretrip info, I was told it would not have been received. What!?! An emergency contact which isn’t monitored? Shame on you RS. Unfortunately, we didn’t know this and had no way to contact our trip leader Stephen Cole. We missed both the Trip Orientation and arrival dinner. I suggest that you provide a number that is monitored & maybe the name of the restaurant so latecomers can join the group, as we were not alone! Loved the leaders Stephen Cole & Dan and their knowledge of the On & Off Broadway theatre scene. Their talks & guests were impressive. i was not impressed however with the show selection including 2 dramas with suicides. (One of our RS group left during the first intermission of Greater Clements & I should have too) I guess if you intended the play selection to be disturbing- you nailed it Road Scholar! Also the outrageous amount my friend Donna Hinton got from Hampton Inn for our additional 2 nights, and your discount code which is supposedly of value - ha!- was a joke. It didn’t work online and they refused to assist her either on the phone prior, when booking or in person. Yet others in our group had their reservations extended for $325 +- while ours was over $600 per night!! I’ve done theater tours since 1982 and stayed at the Days Hotel (now Hilton Garden on 8th) and for at least 15yrs the Marriott Marquis. Let’s just says the Hampton Inn does not compare in any way. Having a bathroom for the breakfast buffet down one floor in the basement is outrageous! Must say I did love the Temptations - Ain’t too Proud and our personal selections Tootsie & Tina. I was hoping I’d love this ‘class’ and want to do it annually, but at this point I’m not sure I’d recommend it.
Sincerely, R’na Komarek
rckomarek@yahoo.com
— Review left January 1, 2020
This was the right time for Broadway. We saw "To Kill a Mockingbird" which was absolutely wonderfully written, directed and acted. The main male actor won a Tony for his performance and his daughter (actor)did also. A memorable week. We went backstage in one wonderful Broadway theatre, tried on costumes from the Lion King, and others, talked with a Broadway producer, then a Broadway actress. So many questions answered. Thanks to all.
— Review left November 24, 2019
This program provides an outstanding overview of NYC theatre. The information shared enhanced the journey even for the experienced theatre goer. A wonderful week in NYC!
— Review left November 23, 2019
Behind the Velvet Curtain exceeded my expectations. Our guide, Steven Cole, was the best (no exaggeration), the three plays we saw were each different and thrilling, the hotel was well-located. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
— Review left June 18, 2019
Perfect experience! Stephen Cole is a terrific leader with a personality that keeps you entertained. He clearly has the energy and spark with extensive knowledge of Broadway theatres and regional theatres to keep us interested. Dan Egan lead the debriefings and interviews in a style that made literally everyone engage in the conversations. His background, personality and expertise in theatre differs from Stephen and messes well. The walk around Times square lead by Stephen to visit theatres and especially the tour of the New Amsterdam were stimulating and very valuable. The chemistry of the 24 participants made it easy to sit and chat during meals and get to know each other. There was no one who dominated the conversations and everyone had important thoughts and questions during the formal sessions. Two of the three performances, "Tootsie" and "Ferryman", were excellent deserving of Tonys, but the off-broadway show, "Happy Talk," needed significant work. Dan's handling of the contrast during the debriefing helped us understand what worked and didn't work among the shows. It was in depth and enlightening. The hotel, Hampton Inn, one block from Times Square was convenient to everything allowing us to walk everywhere. Only drawback was Times Square can get really old with all the people, noise and dirt on the streets. So far this has been our best trip with Roads Scholar.
— Review left June 8, 2019
A Fabulous trip with very knowledgeable leaders/facilitators! So much fun!
— Review left May 29, 2019
What a wonderful experience in the NYC theater district! Saw Tony-nominated shows (Tootsie and Ferryman), met an actor, had great discussions with expert-leaders and learned our way around Broadway. Steve Cole was a fun, energetic, and attentive program leader and we enjoyed all the others who met with us.
— Review left May 25, 2019
This program is superb! We are theater lovers and this provided such a rich background into the creation of a show. Hearing about the creative process from a writer, director and actor added to our appreciation of the finished product; theater folks are some of the hardest working people out there! The theater historian's presentation was also fascinating. We attended three wonderful shows, and the discussions of them afterwards were very illuminating.
Guide Stephen Cole is a force of nature! He is a true delight, and brings such joy to sharing his love of his hometown, and his theater world. He alone is worth the price of admission!
— Review left April 13, 2019
The "Behind the Curtain" trip was a great adventure; it was my first time to New York City. My friend and I stayed in NYC after the program and we had no trouble navigating the subway and around the city. Our tour leader did a great job orienting us to the big city.
— Review left April 12, 2019
This is not a program we would have considered had it not been suggested that some of us friends meet in NYC to participate in this one. We're much more into outdoorsy programs, but were pleasantly surprised at how much we learned and how much we enjoyed this theater program. So, if you think this isn't your "thing," don't discount it; sometimes stepping out of our comfort zones is surprisingly enjoyable!
— Review left March 31, 2019
This is an amazing program- the leaders are fantastic, the hotel is comfy and convenient, the shows are amazing- you must have the cheesecake at Sardi's-I can hardly wait for next year!
— Review left March 20, 2019
This program is fantastic. We have participated last two years, and may well in the future.
— Review left March 16, 2019
I thought the week in NYC was fantastic from the plays that we saw to the wonderful discussion groups. All the different leaders were outstanding. My only suggestion is to tell the participants about the hearing aid devices that are available in all the theaters. I have compromised hearing and wear a hearing aid, and could not hear much of the first play we saw as the actors were not projecting well. Others without a hearing loss also said they could not hear well. It was not until the second play we attended that I suddenly noticed some people in the audience wearing a sound enhancement device. The play was about to start when I was able to ask an usher about the devices, so was not able to secure one until intermission, but then found it to be terrific and I could hear perfectly. I learned that they are at all theaters and so for the remaining two plays I used one with total success. How I wish I had known about them before trying to struggle through the first play!
— Review left February 4, 2019
Join this program if you want to learn about theater from the inside-out. Join this program if you enjoy lively discussions facilitated by a master seminar leader.
— Review left February 1, 2019
