BINGHAMTON (WBNG) — As we continue to return to a sense of normalcy in a world with Covid-19, professional entertainment is making a return to the Binghamton area, specifically the Broome County Forum Theatre.

The Broadway in Binghamton 2021-2022 season kicked off October 19 with “Escape to Margaritaville.”

“Having the Broadway shows really makes it feel like things are coming back to life,” said General Manager Chris Marion.

“It’s been 18 months since we’ve had a Broadway show,” said Tina Niles with Broadway in Binghamton. “And so tonight opening again, Broadway is back and we’re so excited to bring the magic and power of live theatre to our community.”

Niles says the theatre experience provides an escape from reality. “With theatre, it takes you away. You escape for two and a half hours. You’re in a different place, in your imagination, and with other people enjoying theatre.”

Marion with the Forum Theatre says a live venue with shows plays a bigger role in the community, too.

“It brings a lot of people downtown who hopefully go out before or after the show and go to the restaurants, stay at the hotels, go to the gas stations,” said Marion. “Our goal is to create activity that brings people downtown.”

To get a ticket for this season, head to the Broome County Forum Theatre’s box office, the Visions Veterans Memorial Arena at the Mirabito box office, or visit ticketmaster.com.