30th Annual Broadway Flea Market Raises Record-Breaking Funds for a Good Cause

This year's 30th annual Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction broke fundraising records in a benefit event for the charity Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS on September 25. The yearly outdoor market for Broadway theater fans raised an all-time record of an astounding $782,081 for the charity at this year's successful event.

Over 70 Broadway stars and screen actors played a part in the annual event held at New York City's legendary Shubert Alley. The market and auction gala offered various collectibles such as stage props and other items. Fans were able to participate in meet-and-greet events with various theater actors and even collect autographs from many of their favorite thespians.

As reported by legendary theater magazine Playbill, the executive staff of Broadway Cares was thrilled with the epic success of this year's Broadway Flea Market event:

"I'm so proud and thrilled to see this remarkable event grow into the biggest day of the year for the Broadway fan in all of us-whether we work onstage, backstage or cheer from the audience," Broadway Cares executive director Tom Viola said in a statement. "Every dollar earned at the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction will go back into our community and across the country as Broadway Cares continues to provide vital, lifesaving support to the people who need it most. The money we raise from a signed Playbill or prop, a walk-on experience or opening night ticket package has the potential to change someone's life."

TheaterMania.com reported on the various Broadway productions that took part in the event. The website listed blockbuster shows like Hamilton, Wicked, Waitress, School of Rock and The Color Purple as all having contributed special items to the unique charitable auction:

"The 30 editions of the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction have collectively raised $12.6 million. This year's total broke the last year's record of $756,655."

We want to hear from you. Did you participate in this year's Broadway Flea Market annual charity auction? Let us know. Leave a comment in the comments section below.

TagsBroadway, Broadway Cares, Broadway Flea Market, Hamilton, Wicked, Waitress, School of Rock, The Color Purple