The heart of New York City’s theatre district pulsed with the energy of thousands of theatre lovers on Sunday, September 24, 2017, as the 31st Annual Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction blew past previous grand totals and raised $1,023,309 for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.
Broadway fans reveled in all things theatre as they searched for rare memorabilia, met their favorite performers and bid on one-of-a-kind experiences. The day-long celebration featured 57 tables, 74 of Broadway’s brightest stars and 212 live and silent auction items.
This year’s grand total was the first to pass the million-dollar mark, far surpassing last year’s then-record of $782,081. The 31 editions of the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction have collectively raised $13.6 million.
“The number of people Broadway Cares supports across the country is astonishing,” Muñoz, who is starring in the titular role in Hamilton on Broadway, told the autograph table crowd. “I know you’re here for bargains and Broadway, but you’re also making a difference in someone’s life.”
The most unique item Muñoz signed at this year’s Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction? “Someone’s arm!”
The energetic and entertaining Ben Cameron served as host of the Autograph Table and Photo Booth. In addition to chatting with the special guests, he prompted impromptu performances, including a duet between present and past Phantoms James Barbour and Norm Lewis, and a fan’s performance of “Journey to the Past” from Anastasia, who was then surprised by show star Christy Altomare. Broadway Cares