Your support helps us spark meaningful conversations.

Wendy Rosenfield is a familiar name on our site. She's a strong supporter of our work and has been part of our community for years. This year, she wrote: "I’ve had the privilege of serving in multiple roles at Broad Street Review: as a reader, critic, and editor-in-chief. From each vantage point, I’ve witnessed the impact this unique outlet has on the city of Philadelphia’s intellectual life. I’ve watched BSR change and grow, all while maintaining its central mission as a unique space where arts and culture critics are not only celebrated for their insights but also compensated for their contributions.

Yet even as opinion platforms proliferate, paid professional criticism is rarer than ever.

What truly sets Broad Street Review apart is its relationship with its readers. The platform's ability to connect creators, critics, and enthusiasts fosters a rare and invaluable sense of camaraderie around the arts. BSR’s commitment to fostering a space for nuanced analysis empowers us all to delve into topics that matter, sparking meaningful conversations and leaving behind a searchable record of this city’s critical sensibilities.

Of course, an engaged readership means an informed readership; that’s what BSR provides and Philly needs to keep its audiences thriving. At a time when more people choose to stay home, BSR lets them know what they can’t miss. Its editorial and critical voices act as trusted guides, offering a curated lens through which to explore our ever-evolving arts landscape. It’s a gift to readers, writers, and creators, with a role as central to our city as its namesake thoroughfare."

In Summer 2021, Wendy Rosenfield wrote about the Walnut Street Theatre's approach to equity. (Photo by Alaina Johns.)

Speaking of being trusted guides, we held a Zoom event recently with friends and staff of Broad Street Review chatting about media we've enjoyed this year. Here are some recommendations from that chat.

Writer Gail Obenreder has watched Hulu original series Only Murders in the Building twice: once for the plot and characters, and once for the production details.

Writer Emily Schilling encouraged us all to read novelist Kate Christiansen's nonfiction work, Blue Plate Special: An Autobiography of My Appetites.

And BSR social media manager Gabby Kaplan-Mayer glowed about Dani Shapiro's podcast, Family Secrets, which covers individuals diving into what their loved ones have hidden.

And don't forget to enjoy this recent round of staff picks!

A few picks from the editor's own shelf. (Photo by Alaina Johns.)

As we look to the coming years, we’re inviting you to a new program, in honor of our 19th anniversary in 2024: our Local Media Champions. With a $19 monthly gift, you’ll continue to enjoy the benefits of being a Friend of BSR, including exclusive giveaways and free access to special events. In addition, we’ll connect with you and other Local Media Champions for deeper conversations, early access to editorials, and more. If you subscribe at this level for other publications, imagine the impact a similar investment in small organizations like ours can have. Together, let’s keep arts journalism going, and build new opportunities for our staff, readers, and partners—like you.

To be part of this, visit any Donate to BSR link and select “monthly” above the Amount menu, then select Local Media Champion.

Your support matters.