Yearly BC/EFA Flea Market prep
By Sami DeSocio
Every year, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS gathers all of the Broadway and Off-Broadway shows together and invites them to clean out their basements, wardrobes and come together for the Broadway Flea Market.
For some, it’s a great day, and then there are people like me who treat it as Broadway Christmas and make the pilgrimage every single year.
For those that have never been to the flea market, and are going this year for the first time. I thought I’d share my prep process that I use every year to ensure I have everything I’m going to need for the day! I suggest becoming very familiar with BC/EFA’s website: www.broadwaycares.org. You will find all of the information you will need to know about the day.
Once you know who’s going to be at the signing tables/photo booth (remember, watch the page!), you can then plan what you’d like to bring. If there’s people at the autograph table you have wanted to meet and have memorabilia or something you’d like them to sign, they are allowed to sign two objects per person. You also have the option of purchasing a poster for everyone to sign as well.
If you don’t feel like waiting on those lines (and believe me, there are lines)!, there’s plenty else to do there with the tables each show puts out. From snacks to autographs to just simple conversation, Broadway celebrities are available to their fans all day long. Watch the website to make sure you know which shows will have a table.
When I know who will be there, and which shows will be there, I plan my day. I figure out what’s most important to me and do that first. Whether that means line hopping to get those autographs and pictures, or walking around to see which deals I can get from the individual shows. Whichever I choose, I make sure I have a plan. As the date of the event gets closer, you can find a map of where each show’s table will be set up in order for you to plan your path for the day.
Just know that whatever you choose to do that day, you need to pace yourself. There’s no real bathroom, and there’s really nowhere to get a drink. Unless you bring one or go to a nearby restaurant. It’s going to be crowded with Broadway lovers just like you as well, so just remember to be patient and enjoy the day. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get to everything, just do the things that are most important to you! And finally, bring cash! It’s very hard to get cash from the cash tent, and they do not accept credit/debit cards at the tables.
The flea market this year is set for September 27th, which is a Sunday! Hope to see you all there.