Is Fitness Icon Richard Simmons coming to Broadway? — OnStage Blog

The concept would seem to follow his 1990s Sweatin’ to the Oldies video workout series which showed Simmons lead a workout to music from decades past. According to Simmons, the orchestra seating would be removed, and the audience would be encouraged to dance and work along with Simmons or whoever is leading the show.

That’s quite a gimmick. Someone page Ken Davenport.

Obviously, there isn’t much to this other than a conversation between friends. But could something like this work on Broadway? I honestly don’t know, which is what makes it interesting. Since Broadway could use a boost right now, especially with show after show closing, a spectacle like this could be interesting enough to generate a consistent audience.

It’s hard to summerize how huge Simmons was in the home fitness industry, especially in the 80s and 90s. Simmons revolutionized fitness with his infectious energy and relatable approach. “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” made exercise fun and accessible, appealing to a wide audience, particularly those who felt alienated by conventional fitness programs.

So could this work on Broadway? Who knows, but I’m all for unique and interesting ideas to bring audiences to 42nd Street in droves. Maybe a show combined with an aerobic workout would be just the gimmick.