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Fans of the Broadway musical Wicked holding up exclusive merchandise and surprises at the Broadway flea market
Fans of the Broadway musical Wicked holding up exclusive merchandise and surprises at the Broadway flea market

Treasures to Be Found at 2019 Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction

Broadway treasure hunters seeking out autographs, memorabilia, collectibles, and exciting face-to-face moments with some of Broadway’s biggest stars, it is that time of year again. The Broadway Flea Market and Grand Auction is readying itself for its annual festivities, scheduled for Sunday, September 22, 2019, in Shubert Alley and along West 44th and 45th Streets. The 33rd Annual Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction will benefit Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, a longstanding tradition of the theatre community rallying to for charity.

Last year, the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction raised $906,825 and since its inception in 1987, 32 editions have added up to $14.5 million benefitting those in need. Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources, and generosity of the American theatre community, the organization has raised more than $300 million for essential services for people with AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States.

Those who attend the flea market and auction will enjoy opportunities to pre-bid on unique memorabilia, meet beloved Broadway stars, and experience one-of-a-kind walk-on and backstage opportunities. Bidders can then experience the thrill of the auction when Shubert Alley is filled with theatre fans bidding on the items in person on September 22 at the Grand Auction’s silent and live auctions. More details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Of course, the ever popular autograph tables and the photo booth will be returning, with more than 60 of your favorite Broadway performers on hand. Additionally, certain organizations and Broadway shows will have tables selling merchandise to help the cause. The complete list of participants will be announced closer to the event.

Current construction adjacent to and above Shubert Alley will not affect the footprint of the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction. The live and silent auctions, which normally take place in the alley, can be set up around the construction’s support structures. Unlike some other events held in the alley, the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction has more flexibility in how to utilize the space, keeping the construction from becoming an obstacle.

Mark Robinson is the author of the two-volume encyclopedia The World of Musicals, The Disney Song Encyclopedia, and The Encyclopedia of Television Theme Songs. He maintains a theater and entertainment blog at markrobinsonwrites.com.