Broadway musicians have become targets of violent criminals at the stage door of popular shows, including the beloved musical "The Lion King," leading to concerns for their safety. Incident reports and video footage reveal disturbing acts of aggression that have left musicians injured and traumatized.

One violinist from the Disney production of "The Lion King" was violently shoved to the ground in the breezeway of the Minskoff Theater, breaking her wrist in 10 places and jeopardizing her decades-long career. Another violinist from the same show was targeted twice by deranged criminals outside the theater. In one instance, an assailant attempted to steal the musician's instrument, while in another, the musician fought back, leaving his attacker fleeing the scene.

In another incident near the New Amsterdam Theatre, a substitute drummer for "Aladdin" was struck on the head with a weapon resembling a tree branch as he was entering for a performance. The alarming surge in violence against Broadway musicians has raised concerns about safety and the level of control in the Theater District.

Felony assaults in the Midtown South Precinct, which encompasses the Minskoff and New Amsterdam theaters, have skyrocketed by 114% compared to pre-pandemic times. NYPD data shows a total of 456 reported attacks through December 10, 2021, as compared to 213 for the entire year of 2019. Such incidents have instilled fear in the performing arts community, with musicians speaking out about the dangers they now face.

The Broadway community has been vocal about the need for increased security measures in and around theaters. Cellist Deborah Assael-Migliore, a veteran of the Broadway scene since the 1980s, expressed concerns about the escalating prevalence of unhinged individuals and the apparent inability of the police to effectively address the issue.

Disturbing video footage obtained by The Post captures the moment a 66-year-old female violinist, whose identity is being withheld, was brutally shoved to the ground by an assailant while leaving through the stage door. The attacker, a man in a gray "I Love New York" hat and black sweatshirt, swiftly carried out the act before disappearing into the crowd. The violinist was left clutching her injured wrist in excruciating pain.

Following the August attack, the Nederlander Organization, which owns the Minskoff Theatre, increased security measures by deploying more plainclothes security guards. However, the musicians and their union, American Federation of Musicians Local 802, have criticized the theater management's refusal to hire uniformed security guards to monitor the breezeway.

Broadway musicians have also voiced frustration with New York's 2019 bail reform law, which they argue allows repeat offenders to be released back into the community without facing significant consequences. The case of the assailant who attacked the 66-year-old violinist, with his extensive criminal history, exemplifies the concern among musicians that repeat offenders are not being adequately dealt with.

Local 802 President Sara Cutler has called for substantial increases in security at all theaters while highlighting the need for visible deterrents to ensure the safety of performers, staff, and audience members. The Broadway community is now calling on theater owners and local authorities to take immediate action to address the disturbing rise in violent incidents that are threatening the well-being of musicians and the vibrancy of the Theater District.

The incidents serve as a stark reminder that the performing arts sector cannot afford to take safety for granted and must prioritize the protection of those who contribute to its magic and entertainment.