Eleven o’clock numbers in Broadway shows are the last big number with oomph that drives a Broadway show to its conclusion. Eleven o’ clock numbers got their name from a time when theatre started much later in the evening than it does in this day and age (usually around 8:45 PM). Consequently, these big and/or emotionally charged numbers in Act II of a musical would occur right around 11:00 PM. Eleven o’clock numbers obviously do not have to occur at 11 PM (most theatre productions are out by 11 PM these days), but their spirit and purpose within shows still occurs to this very day with such examples as “The American Dream” in Miss Saigon, and “Words Fail” from Dear Evan Hansen.  

Fun Fact: Popular Eleven O’Clock Numbers:

“Brotherhood of Man” from How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying

“Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat” from Guys & Dolls

“Rose’s Turn” from Gypsy

“If He Walked Into My Life” from Mame

“Cabaret” from Cabaret

“Being Alive” from Company

“Nowadays” from Chicago