after a year and a half in the dark, not only have broadway's lights, performers and, workers returned, but so have the audiences. this pair of friends came from illinois and colorado respectively. what does it feel like to see broadway theater again? >> you're going to make me cry. >> reporter: the power of the moment isn't just being felt by audience members, but also by performers, like bane jasper son of "hamilton," which reopens tonight. it is not a normal night. >> it's not normal. it's electric. it's something totally different. it feels like we're on fire. >> reporter: a sentiment echoed by erika and aaron williams, a military couple who left the kids with grandparents in florida to experience "hamilton's" reopening. >> with broadway opening back up and the city getting back to normal, that hope has been once again reestablished. and i believe we continue to keep that hope, i think we'll be okay. >> reporter: jamie wax, cbs news, new york.