Delving Into Broadway’s Fascinating Legacy of Three-Hander Plays

The Legacy of Three-Handers on Broadway

Broadway is not just about large casts and dazzling spectacles; it also harbors a rich tradition of intimate storytelling through three-handers, or plays featuring three characters. Currently, the revival of Yasmina Reza’s play Art at the Music Box Theatre highlights this underappreciated genre. Featuring Neil Patrick Harris, James Corden, and Bobby Cannavale, this play has captivated audiences since its original run in 1998.

Why Three-Handers Matter

Three-handers, while less talked about than their two-hander counterparts, are vital to Broadway's cultural tapestry. The triangular relationships and conflicts that arise from three characters often lead to a rich exploration of themes like friendship, betrayal, and societal norms. While two-person plays have garnered more attention, three-person dramas have offered substantive commentary on human interaction for decades, leading to award-winning successes.

Tracing the Roots: Historical Significance

The first mega-hit three-hander was The Voice of the Turtle, which opened in 1943 and ran for an astonishing 1,557 performances. Written by John Van Druten, this comedy reflected the societal changes of wartime America and introduced fans to beloved characters. The play focused on a woman navigating love and ambition in World War II-era New York, showcasing how three different perspectives can enhance narrative depth.

The 1960s heralded another wave of successful three-handers, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning The Subject Was Roses and Luv, both showcasing the complexities of familial relationships and friendship. These narratives built bridges between personal storytelling and broader social reflections, demonstrating that three-person plays can probe into contemporary issues much like larger ensemble works.

The 70s and 80s: Trials and Triumphs

Despite some of their infamous flops, like The Castro Complex, three-handers weren’t relegated to obscurity. Works like Murder at the Howard Johnson’s added humor while exploring love triangles, even if they struggled to find lasting success on Broadway. Conversely, Neil Simon’s masterpieces like I Ought To Be in Pictures proved the viability of three-person narratives, blending humor with heartfelt encounters.

Modern Resurgence

The past decade has seen a revival of interest in three-handers, especially with significant plays like Three Days of Rain and The Lifespan of a Fact. Each new production not only captivates newcomers but also serves as a nod to previous generations who reveled in the elegance of fewer characters but complex interactions. Recent offerings have included diverse themes, aiming to resonate with contemporary audiences while reminding us of the genre's historical roots.

The Future of Three-Handers

As we explore the evolution of three-handers like Art, we can predict a promising future for this format. With theatres recognizing the marketing potential of star-studded casts in smaller productions, Broadway is poised to become a fertile ground for innovative three-character plays. Notably, new works like What the Constitution Means to Me demonstrate that the three-hander framework can effectively explore pressing topics today, paving the way for even more impactful narratives.

Whether you are a seasoned theatre-goer or new to Broadway, the charm of three-handers deserves exploration. As the revival of classics continues to blend with new works, we may find that the intimate, personal stories told through three characters strike a chord with audiences just as powerfully as grand ensemble casts. Curious to learn more about the history and future of Broadway’s three-handers? Keep your eyes peeled for upcoming productions that are sure to be another step forward in this ongoing narrative.