Stepping into the Spotlight: 29-Hour Readings Explained

Why These Gigs Are Crucial for Musicians Breaking into Broadway

Getting into Broadway 29-hour readings might seem a little mysterious. When I first heard the term, I had no clue what it meant. Early in my career, these kinds of gigs weren’t even on my radar. I was busy chasing gigs wherever I could find them, and most of the shows I played for were already past this stage. It wasn’t until about ten years ago that I stepped into the world of readings and workshops. Since then, I’ve been part of quite a few and learned just how crucial they are in shaping Broadway shows.

A 29-hour reading is a work-in-progress that happens over a maximum of 29 hours. This time is spread over seven days and tightly regulated by Actors’ Equity Association rules. It’s all about keeping things simple—actors standing at music stands, scripts and scores in hand, with no costumes, sets, or choreography. Musically, it’s stripped to the basics, focusing on the material: the dialogue, the lyrics, and the music itself. It’s like a test kitchen for the creators, where they get to try things out, tweak, and figure out what works and doesn’t.

These readings are a big deal for creators because it’s their first chance to hear the work out loud and get feedback. They often invite potential producers or investors to watch, hoping to secure the support needed to move to the next stage, whether that’s a workshop, an out-of-town tryout, or even a Broadway run. For musicians, especially drummers, it’s a chance to be part of a show’s earliest musical development. Sure, it might feel like just another gig, but when that show finally hits the big stage, you’ll know you were there at the beginning. That’s a cool feeling.

29-hour readings aren’t about the money. Union guidelines set the pay, and, honestly, it isn’t great, especially for the amount of time you put in. It’s a grind. But it’s also an opportunity. You might find yourself in a room with some of the top creative minds in the business, and the connections you make can lead to bigger and better things.

If you’re about to step into your first 29-hour reading, here’s what you need to know: