A “Perfect” Production

[PatrickDC]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 12:13am

Often I see people here write statements like, “it isn’t a perfect show,” etc. I know the word “perfect” is incredibly subjective. But is there a common, universal definition of what makes a show “perfect”? 

[JBroadway]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 1:24am

PatrickDC said: "is there a common, universal definition of what makes a show “perfect”?"

 

Nope! None at all! 

 

[dramamama611]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 6:39am

Sure, a show where there are no flaws.

However, getting a majority of people (or any TWO here) to agree upon that being achieved is what is impossible.

[DramaTeach]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 7:06am

1992 revival of Guys and Dolls is as perfect as I think we’ll get. Yes, everyone has their own idea of perfection. That’s mine.

[Mike Barrett]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 8:05am

Art is entirely subjective, so no not really. In 2013 I thought the national tour of Memphis was absolute perfection, but doesn't mean everyone else does. 

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 8:31am

The most recent revival of Hello, Dolly! was pretty damn perfect IMO.

[DramaTeach]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 8:34am

^ I said this recently and then realized that it had the same director as that Guys and Dolls revival. To his credit, he directs pretty joyful musical revivals.

[broadwaybabywannabe2]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 8:51am

The original 1973 Broadway production of A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, to me is an example of the most perfect production i have ever seen...sets costumes dancing and actors, plus the most sublime score and book makes this the most of Sondheim's musicals, perfect!!

[bwaylvsong]

Posted: 7/3/19 at 10:28am

^I didn’t see the original production, but I agree that ALNM is a “perfect” musical- a gorgeous and consistent score (ie none that I would skip every time I listen to a recording), a story that’s interesting and followable, characters the audience cares about, and laughter and tears along the way.