A server in New York City got a special treat when a generous customer left her a $500 tip. This kind gesture allowed her to finally see a Broadway show she had been longing to watch.
Clair Rachel Howell, 27, works at a restaurant in the Theater District, where she often serves guests who are fans of Broadway. One evening, she had a chat with a family who mentioned they were going to see “Merrily We Roll Along” at the Hudson Theatre. Howell expressed her desire to see the play, but she knew tickets were expensive.
After the family left for their show, Howell found out they had left her an unexpected $500 tip on a $732.86 bill. The customer who paid wrote “Go see Merrily! Sit in the orchestra!” on the receipt.
Although Howell considered saving the money, she decided to use it as intended by the generous diner – to see “Merrily We Roll Along.” She described the gesture as a “generous act of kindness” and bought a second-row ticket for the Broadway production, costing around $400. Howell said it felt like she was on stage with the actors during the show.
A server in New York City got a special treat when a generous customer left her a $500 tip
Working in a restaurant in the Theater District exposed Howell to many stories about the play, making her eager to watch it herself. She went to the Hudson Theatre knowing the basics of the plot but was thrilled to finally experience the hit production firsthand.
Howell cherished the gift as a heartwarming holiday moment and hopes it inspires others to be charitable. She will always remember the kind gentleman and his parents who made her dream of seeing a Broadway show come true.
Howell has a rich background in theater, having performed in various productions, including playing Anna in “Frozen” on Disney Cruise Line and starring roles in “Little Women” and “The Little Mermaid” on stage. “Merrily We Roll Along” features Daniel Radcliffe and follows the friendship of a composer, writer, and playwright over three decades.
