Meaning: John Lithgow's quote highlights the changing landscape of Broadway and its audience. He suggests that the demographic of Broadway audiences has shifted to include a greater percentage of tourists, which has consequently influenced the type of productions being offered. According to Lithgow, this shift has resulted in a decrease in variety, danger, and challenge in the shows being presented on Broadway.

Broadway has long been considered the pinnacle of live theater, attracting audiences from around the world with its diverse and groundbreaking productions. However, the commercialization and globalization of Broadway have led to a transformation in the audience demographic. The rise in tourism and the appeal of Broadway as a must-see attraction for visitors to New York City have contributed to an audience makeup that is increasingly composed of tourists.

The influx of tourists in the Broadway audience has undoubtedly impacted the type of productions that are being offered. Producers and theater companies may be inclined to prioritize more commercially viable and familiar productions to cater to the preferences of a tourist-heavy audience. This shift in programming choices may result in a reduction in the diversity and risk-taking that was once synonymous with Broadway.

Lithgow's reference to the diminishing variety in Broadway shows suggests a concern that the range of genres, styles, and narratives being presented is becoming more homogeneous. This could be attributed to a desire to appeal to a broader, more mainstream audience, potentially at the expense of more daring and unconventional productions. The lack of variety may limit the artistic and creative expression that has historically defined Broadway as a hub for innovative and boundary-pushing theater.

Moreover, Lithgow's mention of a decrease in danger and challenge in Broadway productions raises the issue of artistic risk-taking and the willingness to tackle complex and thought-provoking subject matter. The commercial pressures of catering to a tourist-heavy audience may lead to a reluctance to present shows that push the boundaries or confront audiences with uncomfortable or controversial themes. As a result, the artistic and intellectual challenge that was once a hallmark of Broadway may be overshadowed by a more sanitized and commercially driven approach to programming.

It is important to note that while the influence of tourism on Broadway audiences and productions is a significant factor, it is not the sole determinant of the changes observed. Economic considerations, shifting audience preferences, and the evolving landscape of the theater industry all play a role in shaping the current state of Broadway.

In conclusion, John Lithgow's quote sheds light on the evolving dynamics of Broadway, with a particular focus on the impact of a tourist-dominated audience. The changes in audience demographics have undoubtedly influenced the types of productions being offered, potentially giving rise to a more commercially driven and less diverse theatrical landscape. While the influx of tourists brings economic benefits to Broadway, it also raises important questions about the balance between commercial appeal and artistic innovation. As Broadway continues to adapt to the evolving dynamics of its audience, the conversation around maintaining the artistic integrity and diversity of its productions remains an ongoing and crucial one.