Curtain Call Against Casino: Broadway’s Marquees to Project United Opposition

NEW YORK, NY – In an unprecedented display of collective dissent, the iconic digital marquees of several prominent Broadway theaters are set to illuminate Times Square with a unified message of opposition to the proposed Caesars Palace Times Square Casino. On August 13, these grand theatrical signboards, typically adorned with advertisements for hit shows and star-studded casts, will instead broadcast the unequivocal phrase “No Times Square Casino,” marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over the district’s future.

Marquees Light Up in Protest

This striking visual protest, a new chapter in the high-stakes push against the casino, will be prominently displayed on the facades of some of Broadway’s most storied venues, including the Majestic Theatre, the Palace Theatre, the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, and the St. James Theatre. The chosen phrase, stark in its simplicity, aims to capture the attention of thousands of passersby in one of the world’s busiest entertainment hubs. The messaging is strategically timed to appear during two key windows: first, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., catching early morning commuters and tourists, and again in the afternoon, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., just as the vibrant pre-theater crowds begin to gather. This dual-phase display ensures maximum visibility and reinforces the steadfast stance of the theater community.

Rally Precedes Crucial Hearing

The marquee display is not an isolated act but will coincide with a powerful rally organized by the theater community, amplifying their collective voice. This demonstration is scheduled to commence at 9 a.m. on August 13, taking place directly in front of Scandinavia House. The choice of location is critical, as this rally will immediately precede the Community Advisory Committee’s (CAC) first public hearing regarding the highly contentious casino project, which is also slated to be held at the same Scandinavia House location. This strategic timing ensures that the message of opposition resonates loudly just as the official proceedings begin, setting a clear tone for the community’s sentiment.

Organizers anticipate a strong turnout for the rally, emphasizing the widespread concern that a casino could irrevocably alter the unique character of the Times Square area, known globally for its live entertainment and rich theatrical heritage rather than a focus on gaming. This organized effort underscores the deep-seated fear that a casino could disrupt the delicate ecosystem of Broadway, impacting everything from pedestrian flow to the overall atmosphere that attracts millions to experience a Broadway show each year. The latest news surrounding this proposal continues to draw strong reactions from various sectors.

A Coalition of Concerned Voices

At the heart of this organized resistance is the No Times Square Casino Coalition, a robust grassroots organization that has rapidly become a formidable voice in the local advocacy landscape. Comprising an impressive 35 Times Square-area groups, the coalition represents a broad spectrum of stakeholders united by their shared concern for the future of the district. Among its most prominent members are The Broadway League, the national trade association for the Broadway industry, which represents theater owners, producers, and general managers; and the Entertainment Community Fund, a vital human services organization that supports performing arts and entertainment professionals. The involvement of such key players underscores the depth and breadth of the opposition.

The diverse membership of the coalition, ranging from local businesses and resident associations to cultural institutions and labor unions, demonstrates a truly unified front. Their collective message, embodied by the phrase “No Times Square Casino” on the digital screens, seeks to protect the area’s distinct cultural tapestry, which thrives on live theater, not the flashing lights and transient nature associated with a casino. The release of their unified message through such a high-profile visual medium is a significant development, sending a clear signal of the community’s determination ahead of these crucial dates. As the public hearing approaches, the sustained efforts of this coalition will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the future of the new casino proposal, ensuring that all perspectives are heard in this critical debate over one of New York City’s most iconic destinations.