Four days. Four shows. Unparalleled access to leading voices and big ideas shaping theater.

Become a Broadway Insider

The lights, the stars, the unforgettable shows. Broadway is more than glamour, glitz, and emotions, it is big business. Travel with the Graham School and Chicago Tribune theater critic Chris Jones on a truly unforgettable weekend that looks behind the curtain at the financial and cultural realities shaping the current Broadway landscape.

Each weekend includes orchestra seats to four of the seasons newest shows, daily discussions with Tony award nominated industry professionals, accommodations at the David Rockwell-designed, Broadway-themed Civilian Hotel, and a special group dinner.

Experience Broadway from the Inside

  • Be among the first to experience some of Broadway’s most acclaimed productions, then discuss them with one of the world’s foremost theater critics.
  • Gain an insider’s perspective on Broadway through conversations with leading theater professionals shaping the industry today.
  • Engage in thoughtful conversation with fellow Graham School students who share your interest in theater.
  • Stay in the heart of Broadway at a hotel designed by leading theater artists.
  • Travel in December brings you into the heart of New York City for the unforgettable decked out glamour of the city’s holiday season.

Past Guests Have Included

  • Michael Arden, Tony award winning director of Parade, Maybe Happy Ending, and The Lost Boys
  • David Cromer, Tony award winning director of The Band’s Visit
  • Ken Davenport, Tony Award winning producer of Kinky Boots and Once on This Island
  • Dane Laffrey, Tony award winning designer of Maybe Happy Ending and The Lost Boys
  • David Rockwell, Tony Award winning designer of She Loves Me

Past Shows Have Included

  • Ragtime
  • Oedipus
  • Death of a Salesman
  • Cats: The Jellical Ball
  • Fear of 13
  • The Lost Boys
  • The Queen of Versailles
  • Chess

Itinerary

Chris Jones curates the show list and guest visits for each weekend. Tickets will include orchestra seats in recently opened Broadway productions. Chris will lead a pre-tour discussion session on Zoom as well as in-person discussions on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the trip.

(The order of this itinerary is subject to change. Locations may be added.)

Day One

Thursday, December 17th: Arrival Day

Arrive at the hotel and meet us in the Blue Room for a celebratory cocktail before heading out to our first Broadway Show.

Day Two

Friday, December 18th

Engage in a day of discussions between Chris Jones and leading industry professionals. After attending an evening performance, we join Chris for a post-show dinner at a theater district hot spot.

Day Three

Saturday, December 19th

We start the day with a discussion with a visiting industry professional and then take in both a matinee and evening performance of two of Broadway’s hottest new shows.

Day Four

Sunday, December 20th: Departure Day

After a final discussion with Chris we bid a fond farewell to the lights of Broadway, anticipating everything that next season has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about the How Broadway is Changing with America travel study experience from the Graham School.

Who is eligible to attend How Broadway is Changing with America?

How Broadway is Changing with America is open to all Graham School students and alumni, and anyone interested in Graham coursework. While this tour was created to complement classes taught by Chris Jones, no prior Graham coursework is required.

How much does How Broadway is Changing with America cost?

This trip is priced at $3,990 per registrant.

Discounted pricing is available for local attendees and others not staying at the Civilian Hotel.

What is included in How Broadway is Changing with America?
  • Pre-trip seminar with Chris Jones
  • Opening cocktail reception
  • Orchestra or front mezzanine level tickets to 4 of the newest Broadway productions
  • Accommodations including daily breakfast at the Civilian Hotel
  • One group dinner
  • Discussion sessions with leading industry professionals
Are there required advanced readings?

No. Daily discussions will surround the plays you have seen the night before.

Will we have discussion sessions during the trip?

Yes. Chris Jones will lead discussions on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with guests that will include current directors, designers, producers, and other industry professionals.

How much walking is involved?

The Civilian Hotel is located in the heart of the action. You will walk through crowed streets to each show, all located within the Broadway theater district.

What is the cancellation policy?

All cancellations and requests for refunds must be submitted in writing. All cancellations are subject to a $1,000 per person fee, which represents non-refundable ticket prices. There are no refunds after November 17, 2026, one month prior to departure.

Is travel insurance required?

We strongly suggest that participants purchase travel insurance for this and all Graham tours. Travel insurance helps protect you against nonrefundable costs incurred when travel must be postponed on short notice. We are unable to make exceptions to our refund policies.

Participants may elect instead to waive this suggestion understanding fully that the University of Chicago’s Graham School of Continuing Liberal and Professional Studies are under no obligations to provide a refund after cancelation deadlines have passed.

Will there be another Broadway travel experience this year?

Yes. An additional Broadway Travel Study will take place in May 2027. Applications will open later this year.

Where have Graham School programs been featured?

Graham School programs have received national and international attention, with coverage in Forbes, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, The Atlantic, and other leading publications.

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