History Hiding Around Broadway: Backstage Lore, Secrets & Surprises from New York’s Famed Theater District

by Teale Dvornik, James Monroe Iglehart (Foreword)

Go behind the scenes of the Great White Way with this illustrated guide to the Theater District’s hidden history--an essential book for your explorations of the district from a seasoned Broadway guide.

Broadway is one of New York’s greatest treasures, and where there is treasure, there is a backstory. When it comes to Broadway, that backstory is fittingly juicy, dramatic, and unexpected. And no one knows these hidden histories like Teale Dvornik, who has been leading Broadway fans on tours of the theater district since 2017. With her immense knowledge and passion for the theater, Dvornik now takes readers on her one-of-a-kind tour of Broadway, “stopping” at each of the 41 theaters to tell us fun facts, lesser-known history, ghost tales, and interesting stories about actors, performances, stage flukes, blunders, and more, involving the biggest names and productions in theater history. 

Learn about the Tiffany chandeliers of the Belasco Theater, the trove of hidden jewels at the Gershwin (which houses years of history from the beloved musical Wicked), and the impresarios and players who influenced Broadway. Readers will also learn the fascinating back stories of theater myths, legends, and traditions. Where did the stage ghost light come from? What started the tradition of intermissions? Which theaters have secret connecting hallways? And much, much more!  Along the way, Teale takes detours to explain stage lingo and dives into some of Broadways most popular shows, including CATS, Hello, Dolly!, and Rent. 
 

Genres: Nonfiction, Theatre, History, Audiobook

200 pages, Hardcover

Published November 11, 2025

Reviews

[Heather Trumpfheller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this audiobook and I absolutely loved this book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As a lifelong Broadway fan and NYC enthusiast, it filled me with warmth and nostalgia. Teale beautifully blends history, research, and personal stories, making me appreciate these theaters—and the city itself—even more.

Broadway has always been a special part of my life: from mother-daughter trips to the city, to bonding with my grandma, to laughing, crying, and discovering new favorite songs and stories. Teale’s words reminded me why theater connects us so deeply.

I listened to the audiobook first, then bought the physical copy to bring on my next New York trip—it feels like a choose-your-own-adventure through Broadway’s heart. Forever grateful for this love letter to the theater that has shaped so many of my happiest memories.

Expect copies of this as a Christmas gift this year to my Broadway loving friends xoxo

[Kylie Corbett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Teale’s excitement and passion for the Theatre district in Times Square is so palpable. It was a well-researched look into the history Broadway, the good the bad and the ugly. How Broadway has survived and adapted through the Great Depression in the 30s and the crime riddled streets later on. I particularly loved the chapters on each the 41 Broadway houses and the incredible actors and shows that have played on their stages. Some of them have such an insane history hidden within the walls and under the stages (elephants, anyone?). I learned so much about the place I love so deeply.
I read via audiobook and the foreword from James Monroe Iglehart himself was so cool. Teale’s own narration shines with funny quips and lots of enthusiasm!
If you love Broadway or know someone who does, this book is an easy read that will make you appreciate her history and leave you wanting to learn even more!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has to travel to NYC to visit the theater district, this book a total gem. Teale has uncovered the most magical details - things that i'll now know to look for next I visit, and that will make my Broadway experience so much richer. This book will stay on my shelf forever and I think I'll visit it often. I highly recommend as a companion for any Broadway fan, or as a great gift for someone heading to the city!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who loves Broadway and just went to Broadway it was a fun treat to hear the history and lore behind each theater in New York. Definitely a great read for someone who has been or wants to go and wants to know more of the history of broadway.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read :)

[Kacey Cassette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved all the fun facts about each theater! Like that each section wasn’t super long and if you wanted to learn more about a specific theater you can research jt on your own!

[Emily Tillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, if you love Broadway and all things New York, you NEED to read this book. I had the opportunity to do a walking tour with Teale in 2021, and listening to this book felt like we were back walking together! Every story and detail about each theatre was perfect!

[Leah Rachel von Essen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enlightening and entertaining tour around Broadway and its famous theatres. Taught me much Broadway trivia and behind-the-scenes knowledge I didn't know, and is a fun way to track my adventures (I've seen a show in 24 of the 41 Broadway theaters so far). Great book to read chapters of between acts.

[Emma Vandine · Rating 5 out of 5]

My only complaint is that I wish this was longer! It’s so fascinating and exciting to learn about the history of these iconic Broadway theaters, and I feel like this book, though definitely well-researched and containing vast information, is only the tip of the iceberg. The history of Broadway is central to the history of New York City, the history of the art and entertainment industry at large, and really the history of the country (and world even!) in many ways. It’s crazy to learn about all of the legendary people who have graced these stages over the last century and all of the lore you don’t even realize is present around you as an audience member. Getting to learn about some of the most iconic actors, productions, and backstories at each of the theaters I have personally been in is just beyond cool to me. This book makes you feel like you’ve partaken in Broadway history yourself, just by being present in these spaces. What I would give for an in-depth tour of each theater.. but until then, this book absolutely feeds my appetite!

[Amanda Wijangco · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75

As someone who's taken one of Teale's Broadway tours, this book instantly transported me back to the walking the streets of Manhattan's theater district with her. Nothing beats an in-person tour, but reading this is a great alternative and a compelling resource and guide to the places and stories that make Broadway what it is.

I've also followed Teale on social media for years, and her voice shines in these pages without ever coming across as too informal or casual, adding a unique touch that can't be found or replicated in any other theater history book. There's a good balance of facts, history, personal anecdotes, and fun tidbits and stories that make this an informative and fun read for any theater fan.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book to learn more about the history of Broadway and its famous theaters. I loved how Teale writes about each Broadway theater but also discusses some things about off Broadway, too. It was great to learn about where certain Broadway stars debuted and in which shows. The one thing I do wish was included were pictures of actors and the theaters to give a little more context. Otherwise, I loved the book!

[Atlas · Rating 5 out of 5]

From beginning to end, Teale not only takes you around a tour of the theater district, she invites you into a Time Machine and transports you throughout history with her! This book is a fun journey to take! Reading this was just like taking a tour in NYC with Teale! This is a must read for all Broadway and theater fans!

[Jennifer Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fantastic book! I read it cover to cover (About 160 pages!) in the span of an afternoon as I could not put it down! Teale's heart is really in this book and she does an amazing job being concise, yet giving an entertaining and thorough history of Broadway. The book does not have to be read in order, but it certainly makes for a great story if done so. I cannot fully convey how much I loved this book in words. It is the perfect gift for theatre lovers, aspiring actors, and everyone in your life. Get your copy now!!!

[Dan Trefethen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After I saw some Broadway shows (Chess, The Queen of Versailles, Operation Mincemeat) my son started quizzing me with a Broadway trivia card deck. Time for some research!

This book by a certified Broadway tour guide (yes, that's a real thing) gives background on each of the official 41 Broadway theaters, plus a lot of info about the shows that played there, and interesting trivia about architectural details and hidden passageways. It's a light, peppy read that's a lot of fun for theater buffs.

I wish I had read it before my recent trip. I missed seeing the 'Tommy Tune seat' at the St. James Theatre, the most famous seat on Broadway. Oh, well.

Anyhow, I'm more prepared for my son's trivia questions now.

[Jillian Hayes · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED!! Teale is just the best for the random little bits of history of Broadway and I loved hearing even more than I thought I knew in her new book!!

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an exciting look behind the scenes of the Broadway industry with really cool facts, history and exclusive content you can’t find anywhere else. Only a true backstage Broadway vet could uncover secrets like this. Such a great read, beautiful artwork, so well laid out and organized and a fantastic read for anyone who loves theater, New York and Broadway magic!

[Susan Stripling · Rating 5 out of 5]

A perfect love letter to history and Broadway. Would give more than five stars if I could.

[Rebecah · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re a theater lover you NEED this book!! I was lucky enough to get an early copy & the things I’ve learned about each broadway theater is so amazing!! I couldn’t recommend this book more for anyone who loves all things about the history of broadway!

[Emilee Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

For fans of all things Broadway, especially New York’s theatre district, this book is for you. The author is a backstage dresser, and her passion is real. She takes us backstage into the history of the theatres, with each chapter dedicated to a specific one. I loved learning everything from the start of Broadway, superstitions, facts, to which celebrities have been on these iconic stages. This book is full of information! The audiobook is great I feel like she’s taking me on a tour. Speaking of, I would love to take one of her tours!!!

I have always loved live performances and musical theatre. I just got back from my first ever trip to NYC and loved it. I saw three shows: Mamma Mia, Harry Potter Cursed Child, and Wicked! So I especially enjoyed reading about the history of the theatres I had just visited. I already want to go back!

[Theresa Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a long time Broadway/NYC lover and absolutely loved this book! Teale was a wealth of knowledge when I took a walking tour with her a few years ago. I was thrilled when I heard she was writing a book because there truly is history hiding all around Broadway. Rivalries. Revenge plots. Secret passageways?! I can’t wait to take this book along with me during my next NYC trip. Highly recommend!!

[Nancy Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the idea of this book - all of Broadway’s theatrical history in one small, adorable book. The secrets and hidden history were delightful to read. I do wish that for each theater the author had included the complete production history, but otherwise, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and have since sent copies to a few Broadway aficionados.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

My husband and I were lucky enough to have Teale be our tour guide a few years ago. She knows so much about Broadway and I am so happy that she finished this book. A must-read for theater lovers and a great gift!

[Trevor T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well organized and interesting book, packed with stories and and facts, right from the source

[Alana Koontz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful read/listen for Tony season! This a fun and quick snapshot by theater, by street all around New York’s theater district. I listened via audiobook, and it was delightfully narrated by @Thebackstageblonde herself, Teale Dvornik.

I learned some new facts and relished in the author’s personal experiences as a dresser on Broadway.

[Helen Lawlor]

If you love Broadway, musicals, theatre history, or stories from behind the scenes of the iconic theatres in NYC - this book is an absolute gem! ‘History Hiding Around Broadway’ is like going on a backstage tour with someone who not only knows every secret passage, ghost tale, and blunder - but loves it all deeply!

I listened to the audiobook, read by the author Teale Dvornik, and I can’t recommend it enough! You can truly hear the passion in her voice. It’s like being guided through Broadway’s hidden corners by a friend who’s also a seasoned expert. I’ve had the privilege of attending one of Teale’s in-person tours of the Theatre District, and the book captures that same energy, curiosity, and joy for storytelling.

Each chapter is packed with fun facts and fascinating highlights, whether it’s about the architecture of a specific theatre, a backstage tradition, or the quirky history of a famous show. The book covers all 41 Broadway theatres and somehow makes each one feel like a character in its own right.

Also, the cover illustration is beautiful!! I’d hang it on my wall if I could.

If you’re a musical theatre fan, this book will make you fall even more in love with the magic behind the curtain. Brilliant from start to finish!!

Hoping for a ‘West End’ version!

[alleigh waskie · Rating 5 out of 5]

PLZ LET ME WORK AT A BROADWAY THEATRE AT SOME POINT IN MY LIFE- CONCESSIONS, USHER, ELEVATOR OPERATOR JUST SOMETHING MAN

Learned some very interesting facts!
• the term “gaslighting” came from a broadway play called “Gas Light” where a husband keeps dimming and lighting the gaslights in their house making his wife go crazy & question her memory
• the belasco theatre (currently housing Maybe Happy Ending) was named after a famous Broadway producer who had such meticulous design & perfectionism that he created sets with real working appliances and pumped scents into the audience to immerse them in the show
• The musical Oklahoma! only added an exclamation point as a marketing strategy to bring more people in, and it worked!
• after a show ends for the night and all the cast/company go home, a stagehand sets out a lamp stand and a lightbulb center stage every single night as a way to appease the ghosts who inhabit theaters (and to ensure no one accidentally falls off the stage)
• most theatres in America do not have a row I in case people get confused and thing row 1!
• the booth theatre (currently housing “Proof”) is named after a prolific American actor in the 1800s Edwin Booth, John Wilkes Booth’s older brother!!!
• a club promoter/manager at Studio 54 once ordered 4 tons of glitter to be dumped on the dancefloor on New Year’s Eve and for years if you went over someone’s house in New York & saw glitter, you’d know they were at the Studio 54 New Year’s Eve Party
• remained of former broadway producer Leonard Silman were scattered in the concrete base of the Marquis Theatre by a stagehand who found his ashes. it also just so happens to be the same plot of land where his first show opened! (before it was demolished)
• lea michele’s broadway debut was playing young Cosette in Les Miserables at the Imperial Theatre (where she is currently performing Chess) & it was completely unexpected, as she only went to the audition to accompany a friend!
• theater producer H.H. Frazee bought the Boston Red Sox in 1916 and sold Babe Ruth to the Yankees to fund a Broadway musical with the $100,000. this led to the infamous “Curse of the Bambino” where the Red Sox went through an 86 year championship drought thought to have started all because of this trade.
and my most favorite fact…
paige & i have always talked about how act 2 of musicals WITHOUT FAIL is a 10/10 show biz bonanza, well turns out there is a reason for that! during Prohibition Era, patrons would often leave act 1 early to sneak off to speakeasies and show up to act 2 late sooo musical theatre producers had to give their audience an incentive to be there at the beginning of act 2, which led to big numbers at the end of act 1 and beginning of act 2!!!!

[Kaela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I picked this up at the Drama Book Shop on my recent trip to NY. It's a really fun idea and the illustrations are super cute! I love the idea of taking a more intimate look at all the different Broadway theaters, and I did learn a lot of really cool things.

Unfortunately I think this could have used a few more rounds of edits. I noticed a lot of typos and misspellings, including many actors' names, and it was obvious that we couldn't find as many facts for some theaters than others, leading to a wide range in quality of content for each one... some theaters had multiple pages of cool stories and illustrations and others literally had huge blocks of negative space. I dunno I know I'm nitpicking here but it was an odd reading experience. And I liked the way the contents were laid out in "acts" with an intermission and a finale - very cute - but I'm a bit puzzled by the choice to present the theaters geographically rather than chronologically or alphabetically. It made it difficult to flip back and revisit cool facts I wanted to share with my husband lol I just feel like it could have been organized better. I also found myself pausing to google a lot of things referenced (e.g. architecture or cool design elements). Which is of course fine, but I do think it would have been cool to have photos of some of these things for a more complete read. I also noticed that a lot of facts and stories were shared multiple times in different areas, making it feel really repetitive.

This is probably way more info than anyone needed about what is probably intended to be a coffee table book but whatever. The author is clearly super passionate about Broadway and I love to see that, and like I said I did learn a lot of really cool facts! I just think as a whole this could have been presented in a better way. Still a fun read and would make a cool gift for theater fans!

[Joan Stewart Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful, informative little book,"History Hiding Around Broadway: Backstage Lore, Secrets & Surprises from New York's Famed Theater District," is a snapshot of the 41 present-day Broadway theatres, published in 2025. It was written by Teale Dvornik, a working Broadway dresser, tour guide, and social media influencer (@thebackstageblonde).

After a brief background of the Theatre District, the book is divided into quick, entertaining summaries of each theatre, a few pages each. It starts with The Nederlander on West Forty-First Street, then moving north up to The Vivian Beaumont on West Sixty-Fifth Street at the Lincoln Center.

Having worked as a dresser backstage (not on Broadway) at times during my PR career, I completely understand how Dvornik was motivated to transform her love of theatre into such a book. I read it first as a Kindle book from the Los Angeles Public Library and then purchased the hardcover to add to my bookshelf theatre section.

The emphasis is on snapshot, so if you want more in-depth history, you will need to look at an additional source. For example, it sheds light on the previous names of some of the 41 venues, but doesn't identify the old names of all of them.

Listing former names for all would be useful for those of us who attended shows when a different name was on the marquee. For example, I had to look at another source to see that the Plymouth Theatre, where I saw "Burn This" in 1988, is now the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. There also isn't any reference in the book that the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre was previously the Royale Theatre, where I saw "Speed the Plow" in 1988. But despite the missing info, this book is a keeper!

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teale Dvornik did not come to play—she came to tear up the stage.This book is a full-blown standing-ovation moment: witty, deeply researched, and absolutely drenched in Broadway sparkle. It’s part history book, part love letter, and part backstage gossip session with your most theatrical friend.

Dvornik doesn’t just recount the rise and fall of Broadway’s dynasties—she revives them. Every chapter glows like a freshly lit marquee, weaving together forgotten lore, family rivalries, and show-stopping personalities that made New York’s theater scene what it is today. You can practically hear the orchestra tuning and smell the faint mix of sawdust, sweat, and Chanel No. 5.

Her writing has rhythm, style, and plenty of sass. It’s New York history with jazz hands and theater gossip with a scholar’s brain. The research sparkles, but the storytelling steals the show.

This isn’t a book you just read—it’s one you experience. It makes you want to wander 42nd Street in heels, hum “One” from A Chorus Line, and toast to the ghosts of legends past.

Final Bow: Smart, sassy, and absolutely show-stopping. History Hiding Around Broadway is a glittering triumph that belongs center stage.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a 13-year New Yorker and self-proclaimed Broadway nerd, I thought I knew a fair amount about all things Broadway, but I was blown away by how much I learned only 20 minutes into History Hiding Around Broadway!

This book is a genuine delight! Dvornik’s storytelling makes each hidden corner and forgotten tale come alive with warmth, humor, and wonder. Packed with surprising stories, fun trivia, and backstage secrets even a lifelong theatre lover like myself might not know, it feels like taking a personal walking tour with a friend who knows every detail of the district.

I can’t wait for my next visit to Broadway so I can turn to my companion and say, “Hey, guess what I just learned about this theater!”.

A must-read for any New York, history, or stage lover who wants to experience Broadway in a whole new light!