Louise Owen in front of the series poster.

Broadway’s outdoor music series is done for the year after a successful five-month run of weekly music performances. Every week from mid-April through September, Local 802 musicians braved the elements to take a turn in the spotlight, entertaining locals and tourists alike in the new Times Square pedestrian plazas. Launching on a chilly April morning, continuing through sweltering July and August afternoons and finally ending on a blustery September lunchtime performance, “Broadway Buskers: Out of the Pit” employed a total of 18 soloists and 12 duo acts. More than $11,000 in wages was earned by all the musicians combined, including an additional $1,500 in health and $1,000 in pension. The program was a partnership between Local 802 and the Times Square Alliance, with financial support provided by the Alliance.

The weather made it challenging as this year was one of the stormiest and wettest in recent memory. The musicians can attest to this, as 12 out of the 52 scheduled performances had to be postponed, with a few performers needing to be rescheduled multiple times before capturing a sunny afternoon.

The Times Square Alliance was thrilled with all of our performers, expressing appreciation for the high musical caliber and professionalism demonstrated by Local 802 members. To see who performed during the 2017 season, visit www.timessquarenyc.org. Click on “Events,” then follow the link to “TSq presents NYC.”

A contract with the Times Square Alliance for the 2018 season is still pending. More information will be released as it becomes available. For more information, visit www.local802afm.org/referral or send a message online.

Greg Skaff and Saadi Zain

Keve Wilson and Rachel Handman with Times Square Public Safety Officer Sanchez.

Suzy Perelman

Matt Hong