This blog is an attempt to figure out WHAT I still need to catch up on. It won't be easy. But here goes:
New Cast of Hair
Next to Normal (yes, again)
The Burnt Part Boys
Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson
American Idiot
Lend Me a Tenor
Everyday Rapture
Next Fall
Matt Doyle at Joe's Pub
In the Heights with Corbin Bleu (really!)
The Tony Award Nominations
Hmmmm.....what to discuss HERE? Short blurbs:
Corbin Bleu as Usnavi at In The Heights. I liked this show the first time. Sweet, fresh although not terribly orignal. BECAUSE of the introduction of Mr. Bleu (from High School Musical fame) both my kids decided they DID trust my opinion of them enjoying this show. While I still don't LOVE the show, I will say I enjoyed it JUST as much as I did the first time. Both the kids really loved it, too. Watching THEM watch a show is indeed, priceless. Corbin was really wonderful on stage and captured the essence of Usnavi completely. I will admit, many were skeptical of his being cast, but he won over all of the naysayers I'd heard from -- well, those that actually saw him perform. My DD begged to stage door, so we obliged her. By the time Corbin came out, we were half frozen but it was well worth the wait. He was warm and gracious and took a little bit of time with everyone that waited for him. He was incredibly sweet to my daughter and was happy enough to pose for a few pix with her. You'd have thought he was an old b'way pro and fit in the atmosphere of SD very nicely.
Matt Doyle at Joe's Pub
My favorite little club for some b'way performers cabaret style shows, indeed. Matt is working on releasing an album and this gig was a pre-cursor to that endeavor. He sang mostly songs from up and coming composers. I'm sorry I don't have the play list and can't list any of the numbers. But I will say...I would go out of my way to hear Matt sing, he has such a true quality to his voice...so honest. It was also lovely to hear him sing with Jen Damiano (Next to Normal, Spring Awakening). My favorite moment, though, was when former student, Katie Gassert, sang with him. I couldn't have been more proud if I were her mom. It's something seeing someone you've directed since they were TWELVE blossom the way Katie has. I wish her well and hope a suited casting comes her way soon.
(see her here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxOGJFD5qTc)
Everyday Rapture
First, the ONLY reason this has made it to B'way is because Megan Mullalley dropped out of Lips Together, Teeth Apart causing the Roundabout to cacel the show...so they had an empty theater.
This is Sherie Rene Scott's autobiographical musical. Most of you are thinking: Who the heck is she? She IS well known on the B'way circuit with such originating roles as Ursala (Little Mermaid), The Last Five Years (Off B'way), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Aida, and Rent. But what needs to be asked is WHY? She is crazy talented, and I was entertained. But I had to keep asking myself WHY does her story need to be told? It isn't hardship filled. She didn't overcome great adversity. She had a life...and one she's still filling. The whole thing just seemed...well...indulgent. (BTW...she managed to snag a few Tony noms...showing was a weak year this has been for musicals.)
That's enough for now. I promise: in a few days, I'll write some more! I swear that I will be all caught up before I see any new shows. (And that's not likely to happen before Father's day weekend.)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
FINALLY!
Bye Bye Birdie (Revival) -- We waited 50 years for THIS? Ok, I do need to state that I did NOT hate this the way so many of my 'theater friends' did. I was just incredibly disappointed and bored. Most people will review BBB as horrid miscasting. Nope. This is simply a case of the worst direction of a musical. I truly believe that Robert Longbottom TOTALLY missed the boat on this production. He missed the entire point of the show. Where was the commentary on popular entertainment? Where was the disdain for "FanGirls"? His actors were instructed off the mark as to WHO their characters were. Additionally, the characters were not existing in the same 'world of the play'. Bill Irwin (whose work I usually adore) was practically inhuman. Jayne Houdyshell took one of the funniest characters to exist and made her heartless and mean. John Stamos was incredibly inconsistent throughout...WHO IS Albert Peterson? Stamos cannot answer that question, obviously. The kids ensemble, while energetic and lively, lacked character and depth.
Gina Gerson. Singing is nothing more than 'ordinary'. Her acting (she was incredibly in Boeing Boeing) was misguided at best. Her dance skills? Totally ill equipped for this paricular role. Allie Trimm has an absolutely lovely voice (and I hear she is an adorable person -- she certainly was very sweet to my kids at the stage door) but I felt her "Kim" was incredibly boring. Nolan Gerard Funk as Birdie was adequate bordering on good, but nothing stands out about his performance. His undertstudy, Robi Hager, got to play the role a few times (Nolan got sick in previews) and I understand he was WONDERFUL.
Matt Doyle is perhaps the real stand out in Birdie as Hugo. Sadly, this is a small role, so not enough stage time for Mr. Doyle to get the attention he deserves. Thankfully, they re-arranged One Boy so that Matt could sing -- a real treat for any audience. I simply felt that Matt's choices were the only ones that exhibited the true understanding and intent and style of a show like Birdie.
God of Carnage -- Winner of the 2009 Best Play, starring Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, James Gandolfine and Marcia Gay Harden. (ALL nominate for Best Actor, although only Harden won.) Mind you, the cast is entirely different now, and is not pulling in the audiences that is was during the orignal cast's run. (Still: Annie Potts, Jimmy Smits and Christine Lahti SHOULD be able to reel them in.)
From Broadway.com: What happens when two sets of parents meet up to deal with the unruly behavior of their children? A calm and rational debate between grown-ups about the need to teach kids how to behave properly? Or a hysterical night of name-calling, tantrums and tears before bedtime?
My basic feeling was this was a good time and quite a ride, but I couldn't help thinking, "this is it?" I wanted there to be something more, something beyond the jokes and physical suprises. I felt that while the circumstance were believable, the character development was not. I (obviously) am far in the minority with my lack of adoration for this show. Maybe I'm getting to be too much of a seat snob and it's affecting my enjoyment. I was sitting mid-mezzanine, as there were NO discounts available for this show during the original cast's run. (ME? A snob? Naaaah.)
Superior Donuts -- by Tracey Letts (August: Osage County)
Do NOT compare this to A:OC, which was a masterpiece beyond description, truly. This is a thought filled comedy set in Chicago. Superior Donuts centers on Arthur Przybyszewski (Michael McKean) a former hippie and current lost soul, that owns the doughnut shop that houses the entire scope of the play. Franco Wicks (Jon Michael Hill), a black teenager who is his only employee, wants to change the shop for the better. The play explores the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship.
First, let me say that Jon Michael HIll is a young man to watch for in the future. I think given the right vehicle, he could be successful on TV, in movies or on B'way. He was intriguing and believable and had such an 'essense' about him. You cannot help but be drawn to him. Second, it was delightful to see McKean (LENNY!) on stage, who totally inhabited his character.
However, the evening ws pleasant. But that's it. Sure, I laughed, but I didn't care all that much. I could see the entire plot unfold a mere 30 minutes in. The stage 'fight' was laughable. Too, too long and too, too ineffective. I don't want to go to the theater for "pleasant". LIFE is pleasant and I don't have to ride a bus for 4 hours to experience it. Rumor is that Letts never wanted Superior Donuts to hit b'way, as he new it was far inferior to A:OC. He should have stuck to his guns.
Another play to be on the look out for: Next Fall. On my list which is growing too fast. I do not expect to be in Manhattan again until next Month with the kids and seeing In The Heights and the Fantastiks. Then again in April with the HS kids: Hair, Next to Normal and Fuerza Bruta) For me? Sadly, I do not know. This makes me frown.
Life is Good, Broadway is Better!
Gina Gerson. Singing is nothing more than 'ordinary'. Her acting (she was incredibly in Boeing Boeing) was misguided at best. Her dance skills? Totally ill equipped for this paricular role. Allie Trimm has an absolutely lovely voice (and I hear she is an adorable person -- she certainly was very sweet to my kids at the stage door) but I felt her "Kim" was incredibly boring. Nolan Gerard Funk as Birdie was adequate bordering on good, but nothing stands out about his performance. His undertstudy, Robi Hager, got to play the role a few times (Nolan got sick in previews) and I understand he was WONDERFUL.
Matt Doyle is perhaps the real stand out in Birdie as Hugo. Sadly, this is a small role, so not enough stage time for Mr. Doyle to get the attention he deserves. Thankfully, they re-arranged One Boy so that Matt could sing -- a real treat for any audience. I simply felt that Matt's choices were the only ones that exhibited the true understanding and intent and style of a show like Birdie.
God of Carnage -- Winner of the 2009 Best Play, starring Jeff Daniels, Hope Davis, James Gandolfine and Marcia Gay Harden. (ALL nominate for Best Actor, although only Harden won.) Mind you, the cast is entirely different now, and is not pulling in the audiences that is was during the orignal cast's run. (Still: Annie Potts, Jimmy Smits and Christine Lahti SHOULD be able to reel them in.)
From Broadway.com: What happens when two sets of parents meet up to deal with the unruly behavior of their children? A calm and rational debate between grown-ups about the need to teach kids how to behave properly? Or a hysterical night of name-calling, tantrums and tears before bedtime?
My basic feeling was this was a good time and quite a ride, but I couldn't help thinking, "this is it?" I wanted there to be something more, something beyond the jokes and physical suprises. I felt that while the circumstance were believable, the character development was not. I (obviously) am far in the minority with my lack of adoration for this show. Maybe I'm getting to be too much of a seat snob and it's affecting my enjoyment. I was sitting mid-mezzanine, as there were NO discounts available for this show during the original cast's run. (ME? A snob? Naaaah.)
Superior Donuts -- by Tracey Letts (August: Osage County)
Do NOT compare this to A:OC, which was a masterpiece beyond description, truly. This is a thought filled comedy set in Chicago. Superior Donuts centers on Arthur Przybyszewski (Michael McKean) a former hippie and current lost soul, that owns the doughnut shop that houses the entire scope of the play. Franco Wicks (Jon Michael Hill), a black teenager who is his only employee, wants to change the shop for the better. The play explores the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship.
First, let me say that Jon Michael HIll is a young man to watch for in the future. I think given the right vehicle, he could be successful on TV, in movies or on B'way. He was intriguing and believable and had such an 'essense' about him. You cannot help but be drawn to him. Second, it was delightful to see McKean (LENNY!) on stage, who totally inhabited his character.
However, the evening ws pleasant. But that's it. Sure, I laughed, but I didn't care all that much. I could see the entire plot unfold a mere 30 minutes in. The stage 'fight' was laughable. Too, too long and too, too ineffective. I don't want to go to the theater for "pleasant". LIFE is pleasant and I don't have to ride a bus for 4 hours to experience it. Rumor is that Letts never wanted Superior Donuts to hit b'way, as he new it was far inferior to A:OC. He should have stuck to his guns.
Another play to be on the look out for: Next Fall. On my list which is growing too fast. I do not expect to be in Manhattan again until next Month with the kids and seeing In The Heights and the Fantastiks. Then again in April with the HS kids: Hair, Next to Normal and Fuerza Bruta) For me? Sadly, I do not know. This makes me frown.
Life is Good, Broadway is Better!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Can I truly catch up in one more blog????
You betcha, I can!
It's another sad January for the Great White Way. Not as many closings as last year...but still quite a few. More sad, from my point of view, are the shows that didn't seem to get a real chance to shine, namely Ragtime and Finian's Rainbow. Both Revivals and both well rec'd by the majority of folks I know.
On the other hand, there is a lot of exciting things (and people) coming along as well. Green Day's American Idiot, fresh from its twice extended run at Berkely has just announce it's plans to open on Bway THIS spring. While not announced, it's expected that the majority of the cast is staying with the show including: John Gallagher, Jr. Couldn't be happier even though I've heard mixed things as well as the fact that I'm DEFINITELY NOT the demographic for this musical. Still, I am oddly drawn to it...and perhaps because of the cast more than anything else.
Also coming:
Kelsey Grammer in La Cages aux Folles
Abigail Breslin in The Miracle Worker
Bebe Neuwirth
Nathan Lane in The Addams Family
Tony Shaloub in Lend Me a Tenor directed by Stanley Tucci
Oh, there's more...but my mind swims.
Ragtime (Revival)
I never caught the original production (approximately 11 years ago) so I was THRILLED to hear of this revival. The reports out of DC where this production originated were STELLAR. I was excited. I caught this with my sister Thanksgiving weekend. I was intrigued, I was impressed, I enjoyed. But I was not overwhelmed with love. My sister was even less so impressed. On my travels home that weekend, during a visit with a friend, it was suggested that I go again with my dear friend so that she could see it. I declined. Once was enough.
Then a strange thing happened. I couldn't stop thinking about the show. The story, the music, the faces....it was haunting me (but in a good way). I DID want to see it again and pretty promptly made arrangements to do so with the above mentioned accomplice. It was so moving and so nuanced. I was in love. (I'm fickle, I know) Based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow, this is primarily a story of an ugly time in our country's history, a story of racism. It is also a story about finding purpose in life in a myriad of circumstances. While the score may not be hummable, it certainly is powerful. Standout performances go to Christiane Noll as Mother, Quentin Earl Darrington as Coalhouse Walker, and Bobby Steggert as Younger Brother (My personal favorite by far.)
Sadly, the day afterwards they announced they'd be closing 1/4. This beautifully crafted show just couldn't find it's audience. Then a mere 2 or 3 days later, they announced a one week extention because NOW folks were coming out in droves. the rumor NOW? Is that they will take a hiatus for approx 6 weeks and then comeback. At the root of this talk -- is that Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber may be SUBSIDIZING Ragtime to keep it going. Why? Because he wants the Neil Simon for the Phantom of the Opera sequel. It would be cheaper to subsidize Ragtime than just pay to hold theater. Time will tell.
A Little Night Music (Revival)
Sondheim. Lansbury. Zeta-Jones. Who could ask for anything more? Me. This production (and not the show itself....because I LOVE the show) left me cold. I cannot put my finger on WHAT about this show didn't quite work for me. I was enamored of many of the performances. I didn't mind the scaled down orcestra. The vocals were impressive. The costumes were lush and the set was satisfactory. Granted....when I saw it, the show had only had a few days in previews...maybe they hadn't found their 'groove' yet.
Race
In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play by Sarah Ruhl
From the Lincoln Center: IN THE NEXT ROOM or the vibrator play is a provocative, funny, touching and marvelously entertaining story about a young doctor and his wife. Dr. Givings (Michael Cerveris) is obsessed with the marvels of technology and what they can do for his patients. His wife, Catherine, (Laura Benanti) is only a bystander in her husband's world - listening at the door from the next room as he treats his female patients. Dr. Givings is not sure exactly how the vibrators help the women he treats - but they do keep coming back. The only woman whose problem is not helped by the doctor is his own wife who longs to connect with him - but not electrically.
While I wouldn't say this was my favorite play -- of the season or all time - I had a great time. It was fun and even a little thought provoking. The cast each had some really wonderul moments all. One point of contention: the final scene involves snow falling. I don't feel I've "spoiled" anything for the viewer for two reasons -- 1. The show closed last weekend or is it this weekend; it was a limited engagement and 2. If you'd caught the show yourselves, you'd have known it was going to snow later within the first five minutes of the show. ALL throughout the evening, snowflakes kept falling. About every 10 minutes a flake or two would flutter through the living room. Incredibly distracting, for me, anyway!
Nope, couldn't finish up in one more blog post. Ok, ok but we're that much closer now! Still to come:
Bye Bye Birdie
God of Carnage
Superior Donuts
Life is Good, Broadway is Better!
It's another sad January for the Great White Way. Not as many closings as last year...but still quite a few. More sad, from my point of view, are the shows that didn't seem to get a real chance to shine, namely Ragtime and Finian's Rainbow. Both Revivals and both well rec'd by the majority of folks I know.
On the other hand, there is a lot of exciting things (and people) coming along as well. Green Day's American Idiot, fresh from its twice extended run at Berkely has just announce it's plans to open on Bway THIS spring. While not announced, it's expected that the majority of the cast is staying with the show including: John Gallagher, Jr. Couldn't be happier even though I've heard mixed things as well as the fact that I'm DEFINITELY NOT the demographic for this musical. Still, I am oddly drawn to it...and perhaps because of the cast more than anything else.
Also coming:
Kelsey Grammer in La Cages aux Folles
Abigail Breslin in The Miracle Worker
Bebe Neuwirth
Nathan Lane in The Addams Family
Tony Shaloub in Lend Me a Tenor directed by Stanley Tucci
Oh, there's more...but my mind swims.
Ragtime (Revival)
I never caught the original production (approximately 11 years ago) so I was THRILLED to hear of this revival. The reports out of DC where this production originated were STELLAR. I was excited. I caught this with my sister Thanksgiving weekend. I was intrigued, I was impressed, I enjoyed. But I was not overwhelmed with love. My sister was even less so impressed. On my travels home that weekend, during a visit with a friend, it was suggested that I go again with my dear friend so that she could see it. I declined. Once was enough.
Then a strange thing happened. I couldn't stop thinking about the show. The story, the music, the faces....it was haunting me (but in a good way). I DID want to see it again and pretty promptly made arrangements to do so with the above mentioned accomplice. It was so moving and so nuanced. I was in love. (I'm fickle, I know) Based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow, this is primarily a story of an ugly time in our country's history, a story of racism. It is also a story about finding purpose in life in a myriad of circumstances. While the score may not be hummable, it certainly is powerful. Standout performances go to Christiane Noll as Mother, Quentin Earl Darrington as Coalhouse Walker, and Bobby Steggert as Younger Brother (My personal favorite by far.)
Sadly, the day afterwards they announced they'd be closing 1/4. This beautifully crafted show just couldn't find it's audience. Then a mere 2 or 3 days later, they announced a one week extention because NOW folks were coming out in droves. the rumor NOW? Is that they will take a hiatus for approx 6 weeks and then comeback. At the root of this talk -- is that Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber may be SUBSIDIZING Ragtime to keep it going. Why? Because he wants the Neil Simon for the Phantom of the Opera sequel. It would be cheaper to subsidize Ragtime than just pay to hold theater. Time will tell.
A Little Night Music (Revival)
Sondheim. Lansbury. Zeta-Jones. Who could ask for anything more? Me. This production (and not the show itself....because I LOVE the show) left me cold. I cannot put my finger on WHAT about this show didn't quite work for me. I was enamored of many of the performances. I didn't mind the scaled down orcestra. The vocals were impressive. The costumes were lush and the set was satisfactory. Granted....when I saw it, the show had only had a few days in previews...maybe they hadn't found their 'groove' yet.
Race
In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play by Sarah Ruhl
From the Lincoln Center: IN THE NEXT ROOM or the vibrator play is a provocative, funny, touching and marvelously entertaining story about a young doctor and his wife. Dr. Givings (Michael Cerveris) is obsessed with the marvels of technology and what they can do for his patients. His wife, Catherine, (Laura Benanti) is only a bystander in her husband's world - listening at the door from the next room as he treats his female patients. Dr. Givings is not sure exactly how the vibrators help the women he treats - but they do keep coming back. The only woman whose problem is not helped by the doctor is his own wife who longs to connect with him - but not electrically.
While I wouldn't say this was my favorite play -- of the season or all time - I had a great time. It was fun and even a little thought provoking. The cast each had some really wonderul moments all. One point of contention: the final scene involves snow falling. I don't feel I've "spoiled" anything for the viewer for two reasons -- 1. The show closed last weekend or is it this weekend; it was a limited engagement and 2. If you'd caught the show yourselves, you'd have known it was going to snow later within the first five minutes of the show. ALL throughout the evening, snowflakes kept falling. About every 10 minutes a flake or two would flutter through the living room. Incredibly distracting, for me, anyway!
Nope, couldn't finish up in one more blog post. Ok, ok but we're that much closer now! Still to come:
Bye Bye Birdie
God of Carnage
Superior Donuts
Life is Good, Broadway is Better!
Sheesh....I am just TERRIBLE.
Now I am even further behind. I am bad. I hide my head in shame. Shall I wear a cone? (UP reference.)
Other things to add:
Ragtime
Race
A Little Night Music
In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play
Bye Bye Birdie
God of Carnage
Superior Donuts
I feel as though I am missing things. Oy.
As far as the things I am woefully behind on I've decided the following:
I will try to simply to a BRIEF wrap up and skip any repeat shows unless I have something earth-shattering to add to a previous review.
Mary Stuart -- an amazing evening of theater, incredible performances, beautiful (even if inaccurate) history lesson.
Fuerza Bruta -- still exhilarating, still breathtaking. I cannot urge people enough to go and experience this show. Keep an open mind, let go of fears and just BE. For those unfamiliar with Fuerza Bruta, it is performance art at its best. The experience IS you. I imagine that people that are highly religious must get the same feeling from prayer and services that I receive from this show. It assualts your senses. It takes you away from yourself. It makes you SEE things differently. It is nearly an out of body experience. I fear for it's future as it is only selling tix through Feb. My HS group has been trying to get tix for our Spring trip...and it looks like we have to go another route. They are saddened, but life goes on.
Billy Elliot -- I have now seen this three times, and wish it were fewer. It is incredibly manipulative and formulaic. That does not mean that it is drek or without merit. It is just flawed, and I don't think I will quite get over it beating N2N for Best New Musical. Congrats to it's success, it needs no words of praise from me.
The Gazillion Bubble Show -- UGH. My kids liked it, but I just wanted to take hot forks and insert them thusly into my corneas. Don't. Please. (Unless you have young children.)
The Departure Lounge (off b'way) -- At the Public Theater, playing during their SPF Festival. I cannot say anything bad about Jonathan Bradford Wright. I adore him. You may recognize his name from the original cast of Spring Awakening, or two of Michael Cera's movies (Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist and the upcoming Youth in Revolt). Since those movies are NOT of my liking, I was incredibly happy to see JBW back on stage and SINGING. The show itself about 4 longtime friends finding out the truth about themselves and each other after a free sprited vacation was "nice" enough. I believe the blurb from the festival states it is a "testosterone-driven new musical." Yup.
I will go and see JBW sing the phone book. Or simply SIT on a phone book. The man oozes talent and is incredibly hot. Chatting with him afterwards, he was incredibly sweet...and much more outgoing and comfortable than in previous meetings. He mentioned he saw us in the audience and thought, "Aw, there's my 'peeps'". (As a sidebar....I saw him in NYC Christmas week as he walked by 5Napkin Burger where we were eating. Yum -- JBW AND the restaurant.)
PLEASE cast this incredibly young man in a musical on b'way. American Idiot, please? (Even thought I highly suspect that the entire cast is staying with the show.)
Avenue Q -- Over five years since it opened and close to 4 since I saw it the first time, this show has since closed ON Bway.. It was still fun, still inappropriate for the masses. Grown up Sesame Street. Puppet Porn. The most UN-"PC" show out there. And a real entertaining delight. I've heard it has survived the transfer to Off B'way quite well (New World Stages).
Vanities (off b'way) -- This has been one of my favorite plays since college. I was more than curious, even though I'd heard less than stellar reports. This was a show that was originally slated for a B'way opening when the economy turned south. Well, the reports weren't wrong. It wasn't wonderful, but it wasn't terrible. It was just...meh. It would have been a colossal error to allow this to open ON B'way. I happened to get to the closing performance, which if you haven't been to the closing of a professional show, have a tendancy to run high on emotions. It's hard letting go of something that has been a part of you for some time. I suppose I would liken it to sending your kids off to college. (not that I've been there yet...only with students)
Next to Normal -- I am fairly certain I have spewed enough adoration and love for this show for the next decade. I am excited to see this again with my students in April. Aaron Tveit has permanently left the cast and the producers have replaced him with Kyle Massey, who temporarily replaced him during the summer during his run in Catch Me If You Can out in Seattle.
The Toxic Avenger (off b'way)-- another fresh, inappropriate, noisy and tacky show. And I loved every minute of it. Sadly, this too is closing at New World Stages. Based off a TERRIBLY B-movie from the 80's, nothing is too lowly for this raunchy musical. And I had a blast.
Hair -- LOVE. Nothing but love. Got to catch Jay Johnson on for Claude as Gavin had the NERVE to be on Vacation. Jay was lovely. Young, yearning and pure. Will Swenson nearly made love to me in my seat. (No complaints) And SOMEHOW (thanks, Nix) we ended up BACKSTAGE. Got to meet nearly everyone and hang about on stage and in the wings. Cannot begin to be giddy enough about THAT experience. I so had the opporutuinty to steal props....but there was nothing inconsequential to lift. Not a freakin' draft card or love beads. MAJOR disappointment. My friends tried to convince me to take a spear...but that seemed a bit much.
A few weeks later we ran into Jay at the Equality March rally held at the Delacourt Theater. What a lovely kid.
Burn the Floor -- ugh. Wanted to leave. Wanted there to be SOME meaning. Wanted to get two hours of my life back.
The Bacchae (At the Delacourt theater in Central Park)-- Not one of my favorite theatrical experiences. I didn't even really enjoy seeing Jonathan Groff attempt this mess of a show. I'm a fan of classical theater...but not 1/2 baked ideas that leave you cold and unmoved.
Matt Doyle (in his first solo gig)-- a beautiful person, a beautiful voice, a really nice gig. Of course, it was brimming with fan girls that would have been ecstatic had Matt showed up and simply passed gas. Special guests: Blake Daniel, Wes Taylor and someone else from the final cast of Spring Awakening.
Joe Iconis (and friends)-- you can't have more fun with your clothes on. Really.
The 39 Steps (FINALLY!) -- and yet, I was disappointed. Truly. It was cute, but mostly because of the gimmick....4 actors playing an obnoxious amount of characters. This is also closing it's bway run but will ALSO be taking up residence at New World Stages to see about an OFF b'way go. Hm. A new trend???
OK....that's enough for now. I'll try to catch up on the fall experiences in the next few days!
Other things to add:
Ragtime
Race
A Little Night Music
In the Next Room or the Vibrator Play
Bye Bye Birdie
God of Carnage
Superior Donuts
I feel as though I am missing things. Oy.
As far as the things I am woefully behind on I've decided the following:
I will try to simply to a BRIEF wrap up and skip any repeat shows unless I have something earth-shattering to add to a previous review.
Mary Stuart -- an amazing evening of theater, incredible performances, beautiful (even if inaccurate) history lesson.
Fuerza Bruta -- still exhilarating, still breathtaking. I cannot urge people enough to go and experience this show. Keep an open mind, let go of fears and just BE. For those unfamiliar with Fuerza Bruta, it is performance art at its best. The experience IS you. I imagine that people that are highly religious must get the same feeling from prayer and services that I receive from this show. It assualts your senses. It takes you away from yourself. It makes you SEE things differently. It is nearly an out of body experience. I fear for it's future as it is only selling tix through Feb. My HS group has been trying to get tix for our Spring trip...and it looks like we have to go another route. They are saddened, but life goes on.
Billy Elliot -- I have now seen this three times, and wish it were fewer. It is incredibly manipulative and formulaic. That does not mean that it is drek or without merit. It is just flawed, and I don't think I will quite get over it beating N2N for Best New Musical. Congrats to it's success, it needs no words of praise from me.
The Gazillion Bubble Show -- UGH. My kids liked it, but I just wanted to take hot forks and insert them thusly into my corneas. Don't. Please. (Unless you have young children.)
The Departure Lounge (off b'way) -- At the Public Theater, playing during their SPF Festival. I cannot say anything bad about Jonathan Bradford Wright. I adore him. You may recognize his name from the original cast of Spring Awakening, or two of Michael Cera's movies (Nick and Nora's Infinite Playlist and the upcoming Youth in Revolt). Since those movies are NOT of my liking, I was incredibly happy to see JBW back on stage and SINGING. The show itself about 4 longtime friends finding out the truth about themselves and each other after a free sprited vacation was "nice" enough. I believe the blurb from the festival states it is a "testosterone-driven new musical." Yup.
I will go and see JBW sing the phone book. Or simply SIT on a phone book. The man oozes talent and is incredibly hot. Chatting with him afterwards, he was incredibly sweet...and much more outgoing and comfortable than in previous meetings. He mentioned he saw us in the audience and thought, "Aw, there's my 'peeps'". (As a sidebar....I saw him in NYC Christmas week as he walked by 5Napkin Burger where we were eating. Yum -- JBW AND the restaurant.)
PLEASE cast this incredibly young man in a musical on b'way. American Idiot, please? (Even thought I highly suspect that the entire cast is staying with the show.)
Avenue Q -- Over five years since it opened and close to 4 since I saw it the first time, this show has since closed ON Bway.. It was still fun, still inappropriate for the masses. Grown up Sesame Street. Puppet Porn. The most UN-"PC" show out there. And a real entertaining delight. I've heard it has survived the transfer to Off B'way quite well (New World Stages).
Vanities (off b'way) -- This has been one of my favorite plays since college. I was more than curious, even though I'd heard less than stellar reports. This was a show that was originally slated for a B'way opening when the economy turned south. Well, the reports weren't wrong. It wasn't wonderful, but it wasn't terrible. It was just...meh. It would have been a colossal error to allow this to open ON B'way. I happened to get to the closing performance, which if you haven't been to the closing of a professional show, have a tendancy to run high on emotions. It's hard letting go of something that has been a part of you for some time. I suppose I would liken it to sending your kids off to college. (not that I've been there yet...only with students)
Next to Normal -- I am fairly certain I have spewed enough adoration and love for this show for the next decade. I am excited to see this again with my students in April. Aaron Tveit has permanently left the cast and the producers have replaced him with Kyle Massey, who temporarily replaced him during the summer during his run in Catch Me If You Can out in Seattle.
The Toxic Avenger (off b'way)-- another fresh, inappropriate, noisy and tacky show. And I loved every minute of it. Sadly, this too is closing at New World Stages. Based off a TERRIBLY B-movie from the 80's, nothing is too lowly for this raunchy musical. And I had a blast.
Hair -- LOVE. Nothing but love. Got to catch Jay Johnson on for Claude as Gavin had the NERVE to be on Vacation. Jay was lovely. Young, yearning and pure. Will Swenson nearly made love to me in my seat. (No complaints) And SOMEHOW (thanks, Nix) we ended up BACKSTAGE. Got to meet nearly everyone and hang about on stage and in the wings. Cannot begin to be giddy enough about THAT experience. I so had the opporutuinty to steal props....but there was nothing inconsequential to lift. Not a freakin' draft card or love beads. MAJOR disappointment. My friends tried to convince me to take a spear...but that seemed a bit much.
A few weeks later we ran into Jay at the Equality March rally held at the Delacourt Theater. What a lovely kid.
Burn the Floor -- ugh. Wanted to leave. Wanted there to be SOME meaning. Wanted to get two hours of my life back.
The Bacchae (At the Delacourt theater in Central Park)-- Not one of my favorite theatrical experiences. I didn't even really enjoy seeing Jonathan Groff attempt this mess of a show. I'm a fan of classical theater...but not 1/2 baked ideas that leave you cold and unmoved.
Matt Doyle (in his first solo gig)-- a beautiful person, a beautiful voice, a really nice gig. Of course, it was brimming with fan girls that would have been ecstatic had Matt showed up and simply passed gas. Special guests: Blake Daniel, Wes Taylor and someone else from the final cast of Spring Awakening.
Joe Iconis (and friends)-- you can't have more fun with your clothes on. Really.
The 39 Steps (FINALLY!) -- and yet, I was disappointed. Truly. It was cute, but mostly because of the gimmick....4 actors playing an obnoxious amount of characters. This is also closing it's bway run but will ALSO be taking up residence at New World Stages to see about an OFF b'way go. Hm. A new trend???
OK....that's enough for now. I'll try to catch up on the fall experiences in the next few days!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
I have been remiss.
And I am ashamed. But I have to admit: there is no way I'll catch up tonight.
However....this is what's to come...
From JUNE
Mary Stuart
Fuerza Bruta
From JULY with the kids
Billy Elliot
The Gazillion Bubble Show
From AUGUST
The Departure Lounge (off b'way)
Avenue Q (getting ready to close after almost 6 years)
Vanities (off b'way)
Next to Normal
The Toxic Avenger (off b'way)
Hair
Burn the Floor
Billy Elliot
The Bacchae (At the Delacourt theater in Central Park)
Matt Doyle (in his first solo gig)
Joe Iconis (and friends)
The 39 Steps (FINALLY!)
The Future:
Hard to believe we're experiencing a recession....because you sure couldn't tell from all the shows coming onto the Great White Way for the 2010 season!
Plays!
Revivals!
Musicals!
Hollywood Stars!
British Productions!
Broadway Favorites!
JOHN LITHGOW!!!!
Very exciting. I'll need a second job just to keep up!
However....this is what's to come...
From JUNE
Mary Stuart
Fuerza Bruta
From JULY with the kids
Billy Elliot
The Gazillion Bubble Show
From AUGUST
The Departure Lounge (off b'way)
Avenue Q (getting ready to close after almost 6 years)
Vanities (off b'way)
Next to Normal
The Toxic Avenger (off b'way)
Hair
Burn the Floor
Billy Elliot
The Bacchae (At the Delacourt theater in Central Park)
Matt Doyle (in his first solo gig)
Joe Iconis (and friends)
The 39 Steps (FINALLY!)
The Future:
Hard to believe we're experiencing a recession....because you sure couldn't tell from all the shows coming onto the Great White Way for the 2010 season!
Plays!
Revivals!
Musicals!
Hollywood Stars!
British Productions!
Broadway Favorites!
JOHN LITHGOW!!!!
Very exciting. I'll need a second job just to keep up!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
N2N -- v2 & God of Carnage
Got to see some friends, got to see some shows. Life is Good, Broadway is Better.
Next to Normal (revisted)
I know, I know...I only saw this a few weeks ago. Additionally, when I left the theater I wasn't sure if I could see this again as it is emotionally draining. But I found I couldn't stop thinking about it, couldn't stop listening to the cd. The cd kept evoking emotions that it hadn't while in the theater. A deeper understanding, perhaps? (If you haven't heard some of the music, there is a player over on the left where you sample about 10 of the songs. It's purple, so a little hard to miss although you need to scroll down a little. Listen and read.)
So, I lucked into a third row seat and prepared myself for an emotional beating. Wow. The entire cast was simply on fire, so much more intense than when I originally viewed the show. I heard from others that the show was like that for all five shows of the weekend. (Impressing Tony voters, perhaps???) I don't care the reason -- it was a theatrical experience NOT to be missed.
The cast:
Alice Ripley -- I don't know how this woman does this show 8 times a week, especially the two a days! The tears and the emotion flow from her as simply as turnig on your faucet. She is giving the performance of a lifetime...and one that will be a measuring stick for years to come. Granted it is an amazing character to play and she's been at it for quite some time. But still, I am in awe. There are folks that complain about pitch problems she may or may not have, people complain about the quality of her voice. Pooh to them all. Alice Ripley is an amazing actress, and I love every quirk and nuance of her.
J. Robert Spencer -- I am "over" Brian d'arcy James no longer being a part of this show. Spencer's portrayal of the family's patriach has gotten so nuanced and stronger even if the few weeks since I last saw it. I love how his character has become consumed with his wife, although sadly at the expense of his daughter. His pain is more evident and the brave face is an ardently failing mask.
Jennifer Damiano -- 18 years old, 2nd B'way Show. Tony Nominee. I wish I could hate her, but she is so incredibly talented. I was listening to a version of N2N from approx 2 years ago, when the show was off b'way at 2nd Stage. I was astounded to hear how much Jenn's voice has grown and matured in that time. She was captivating.
Aaron Tveit -- First, may I just say, "YUM"? When Aaron appears without his shirt, I am fairly certain I had to catch my breath. And I've seen the man in that form of undress a few times. It's wrong that he's so pretty. But since he is the purest form of energy while onstage makes it ok. *spoiler* Aaron plays a spirit, a soul, a hallucintation, an imagination....how fitting. end of *spoiler* Sadly for many of you that haven't seen the show yet: Aaron is leaving N2N for an out of town stint in the premiere of "Catch Me If You Can" in Seattle. The plan is for him to return early September. Kyle Dean Massey will be his replacement....while I will most likely catch him in August, I do not know his work. He is cuter than all get out as I saw him at the stage door last week while I was waiting for a friend.
God of Carnage -- Tony Nominated for: Best new play and all four actors rec'd acting noms as well. Sadly, my seats are less than stellar. I am in the back half of the mezzanine. (As a side note: I find I am becoming more and more of a seat snob) The actors/directors played NOTHING to the mezzanine.
The play is certainly entertaining....but still lacking something. I still can't figure out what, though. The plot surrounds two couples that have come together to discuss a playground accident. This quickly unravels into an evening of accuasations, confessions, lies and redemption.
I love the actors: Marsha Gay Harden, Jeff Daniels, James Gandolfini and Hope Davis. I LIKE the premise. I even liked the performances...except for Ganolfini, who I couldn't understand about 1/3 of the time. There were moments that were PRICELESS. But for the most part, I just kept thinking: Really? Why? Am I missing the point? There seems to be no reason for these people to be talking about the stuff they are, and certainly no reason to tell us about it.
Next up:
THE TONY AWARDS! I'm not going (don't I wish?) but I am watching. FYI more than 1/2 of the awards will be given out PRE telcast and the only way to see them is on a live feed. PS...not too happy with the format this year. CBS wants less focus on the awards and speeches; more attention on the musicals. Even if they aren't NOMINATED or currently plyaing. Yup...you read that correctly: the TOUR casts of Legally Blonde, The Jersey Boys and some show I have forgotten will be performing at the Tony awards. I GET that the Tonys get a limited audience. I GET that viewership is down -- but it is for ALL award shows. I even GET that CBS wants to make money. But it IS a freakin' AWARD show after all, so let's not make it so obvious that it's simply a multi hour commercial for B'way.
Mary Stuart and a re-visit to Fuerzabruta. The day can't be much more diverse!
Next to Normal (revisted)
I know, I know...I only saw this a few weeks ago. Additionally, when I left the theater I wasn't sure if I could see this again as it is emotionally draining. But I found I couldn't stop thinking about it, couldn't stop listening to the cd. The cd kept evoking emotions that it hadn't while in the theater. A deeper understanding, perhaps? (If you haven't heard some of the music, there is a player over on the left where you sample about 10 of the songs. It's purple, so a little hard to miss although you need to scroll down a little. Listen and read.)
So, I lucked into a third row seat and prepared myself for an emotional beating. Wow. The entire cast was simply on fire, so much more intense than when I originally viewed the show. I heard from others that the show was like that for all five shows of the weekend. (Impressing Tony voters, perhaps???) I don't care the reason -- it was a theatrical experience NOT to be missed.
The cast:
Alice Ripley -- I don't know how this woman does this show 8 times a week, especially the two a days! The tears and the emotion flow from her as simply as turnig on your faucet. She is giving the performance of a lifetime...and one that will be a measuring stick for years to come. Granted it is an amazing character to play and she's been at it for quite some time. But still, I am in awe. There are folks that complain about pitch problems she may or may not have, people complain about the quality of her voice. Pooh to them all. Alice Ripley is an amazing actress, and I love every quirk and nuance of her.
J. Robert Spencer -- I am "over" Brian d'arcy James no longer being a part of this show. Spencer's portrayal of the family's patriach has gotten so nuanced and stronger even if the few weeks since I last saw it. I love how his character has become consumed with his wife, although sadly at the expense of his daughter. His pain is more evident and the brave face is an ardently failing mask.
Jennifer Damiano -- 18 years old, 2nd B'way Show. Tony Nominee. I wish I could hate her, but she is so incredibly talented. I was listening to a version of N2N from approx 2 years ago, when the show was off b'way at 2nd Stage. I was astounded to hear how much Jenn's voice has grown and matured in that time. She was captivating.
Aaron Tveit -- First, may I just say, "YUM"? When Aaron appears without his shirt, I am fairly certain I had to catch my breath. And I've seen the man in that form of undress a few times. It's wrong that he's so pretty. But since he is the purest form of energy while onstage makes it ok. *spoiler* Aaron plays a spirit, a soul, a hallucintation, an imagination....how fitting. end of *spoiler* Sadly for many of you that haven't seen the show yet: Aaron is leaving N2N for an out of town stint in the premiere of "Catch Me If You Can" in Seattle. The plan is for him to return early September. Kyle Dean Massey will be his replacement....while I will most likely catch him in August, I do not know his work. He is cuter than all get out as I saw him at the stage door last week while I was waiting for a friend.
God of Carnage -- Tony Nominated for: Best new play and all four actors rec'd acting noms as well. Sadly, my seats are less than stellar. I am in the back half of the mezzanine. (As a side note: I find I am becoming more and more of a seat snob) The actors/directors played NOTHING to the mezzanine.
The play is certainly entertaining....but still lacking something. I still can't figure out what, though. The plot surrounds two couples that have come together to discuss a playground accident. This quickly unravels into an evening of accuasations, confessions, lies and redemption.
I love the actors: Marsha Gay Harden, Jeff Daniels, James Gandolfini and Hope Davis. I LIKE the premise. I even liked the performances...except for Ganolfini, who I couldn't understand about 1/3 of the time. There were moments that were PRICELESS. But for the most part, I just kept thinking: Really? Why? Am I missing the point? There seems to be no reason for these people to be talking about the stuff they are, and certainly no reason to tell us about it.
Next up:
THE TONY AWARDS! I'm not going (don't I wish?) but I am watching. FYI more than 1/2 of the awards will be given out PRE telcast and the only way to see them is on a live feed. PS...not too happy with the format this year. CBS wants less focus on the awards and speeches; more attention on the musicals. Even if they aren't NOMINATED or currently plyaing. Yup...you read that correctly: the TOUR casts of Legally Blonde, The Jersey Boys and some show I have forgotten will be performing at the Tony awards. I GET that the Tonys get a limited audience. I GET that viewership is down -- but it is for ALL award shows. I even GET that CBS wants to make money. But it IS a freakin' AWARD show after all, so let's not make it so obvious that it's simply a multi hour commercial for B'way.
Mary Stuart and a re-visit to Fuerzabruta. The day can't be much more diverse!
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