We’ve All Been Touched by TKTS

By MARK BLANKENSHIP

We all know TKTS is a place to buy discounted theatre tickets, but in the 40 years since it was created, it’s also become an emotional touchstone for New York theatre lovers. Ask anyone who cares about the arts in this city, and they’ll almost certainly have a memory of TKTS.

Before that, Caldwell also delivered the night’s most charming moment: She had forgotten her glasses at her table, and since she couldn’t read her speech without them, she borrowed a pair from a man on the front row. (At least four people leapt to their feet to offer their eyewear, which proves that a Dame can still get respect in this town.)

More memorable moments came from Bernadette Peters, who flawlessly sang a trio of musical theatre standards; Hugh Jackman, who appeared in a pre-taped video tribute to Smith; and the cast of , who debuted a new song about TDF. (You can watch it below.)

Later, Beane joked that he was surrounded by young people, and he reminded the twenty-somethings what World War II was. At the end of the night, though, he told everyone they should find twenty-somethings wandering through Times Square and point them toward TKTS.

After all, Beane said, that’s how young people can start their theatre habits, just like he did. It was a reminder that TKTS is still doing what it has done for 40 years: Making the theatre more accessible for everyone and helping countless people fall in love with the stage.

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Mark Blankenship is TDF’s online content editor

Photos by Anita and Steve Shevett