You’ve certainly heard of snow globes—and this is the time of year when many people display small, decorative globes filled with glittering winter scenes as part of their holiday décor.
But what about show globes?
To celebrate the holiday season, the times Square Alliance has offered a gift to the city—a series of enormous snow (show) globes showcasing scenes from some of Broadway’s most-loved musicals. On view on the Broadway Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets, the globes were inspired by the designs of Aladdin, (new this year), The Lion King, and Wicked. It’s a unique and fun celebration of both Broadway and the holiday season.
Elf Squad Tip: Check out the new Museum of Broadway for more theater fun when in the area!
The oversized globes were envisioned by the Times Square Alliance to both celebrate Broadway design and encourage visitors to see a Broadway show. The show globes made their debut in 2019 with scenes from Dear Evan Hansen, Wicked, The Lion King, and Ain’t Too Proud; they’re now in their third season.
For Aladdin, the tableau in the globe was inspired by the scene in the musical when Aladdin first discovers the magic lamp—the scene that arguably really sets the show in motion--as well as by Bob Crowley’s set design.
The famous and much-loved Circle of Life scene was the inspiration for The Lion King globe, which reflects the incredible puppetry and breathtaking sets and costumes. The iconic scene focuses on Rafiki introducing the kingdom to the future king, while the sun rises in the background. (The figure of Rafiki is courtesy of Madame Tussauds Wax Museum.) The birds and giraffes are small replicas of the ones in the show, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
And the Wicked show globe celebrates the indelible bond between the musical’s two iconic witches---Glinda and Elphaba. The globe features the Land of Oz skyline and its dazzling costumes. For all of the globes, be sure to note the smaller details, like the clock gears motif In the Wicked globe.
The giant globes offer a fun photo op, a joyous holiday exhibit, and a reminder of how intrinsic Broadway is to the life of the city. You can visit them through December 26, 2022, when they have to be cleared away to prepare for New Year's Eve in Times Square!