Broadway Haven Players Provides a Creative Outlet for Medical Students
Since 1967, the theater group has been putting on several productions annually.
If you are a medical student or faculty or staff member at Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), as well as an aspiring actor or have other creative talents, the Broadway Haven Players (BHP) may be for you. Since 1967, BHP has been producing several fully mounted theatrical productions each academic year. Drawing on the inventiveness and performance skills of people from all corners of the medical center’s campus, BHP puts on entertainment of high artistic quality, which is also great fun for all involved.
The upcoming production is Mean Girls: The Musical, which will be performed on November 12, 13, and 14, 2026, in Alumni Auditorium (650 West 168th St., on the CUIMC campus). For tickets and event information, visit Mean Girls: The Musical Tickets.
What is the group’s mission?
In addition to mounting shows, Broadway Haven Players fosters a supportive environment, where CUIMC students, faculty, and staff can share their passion for the performing arts, outside of their academic and clinical responsibilities. The organization seeks to develop leadership skills, encourage collaboration, and strengthen connections among CUIMC members and the broader Columbia community.
How many members are there?
There are currently about 50 active members. Participation is open to anyone from CUIMC, as well as friends of the medical center community. Members contribute in a variety of ways, including acting, singing, dancing, playing an instrument in the orchestra, directing, choreographing, stage managing, designing costumes and sets, running technical operations, and supporting production logistics.
How often are shows produced, and how are they chosen? Are there auditions?
Broadway Haven Players traditionally mounts two or three major productions each academic year, at least one in the fall and one in the spring. Productions are selected by the director, with oversight and support from the BHP president and vice president. The selection process considers member interest, available performers, production resources, the suitability of the material, and the organization’s ability to successfully stage the work.
Auditions are held for each production in Alumni Auditorium. In addition to auditioning for performance roles, students can participate as musicians or join the production, design, and technical teams.
Where are rehearsals on Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays, and how long do they last?
Auditions, rehearsals, and performances are held in Alumni Auditorium. Regular rehearsal schedule is Mondays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sundays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. As opening night approaches, rehearsals become more intensive, particularly during technical rehearsals and production week.
Why should someone join?
Broadway Haven Players offers students a chance to step away from the demands of medical and health sciences education, and participate in a creative, collaborative community. From acting and singing to set design and publicity, there is a role for everyone.
Members gain valuable experience in teamwork, communication, leadership, problem-solving, and time management, while building friendships with people from across the medical center. Both experienced performers and first-timers are welcome.
For More Information
Check out the group’s website, Instagram (broadwayhavenplayers), or email [email protected].