Hello all! I hate to create another one of these threads, but I could use some help. Let me preface this post by saying I lived in NYC from 2015-2020 and saw every musical and play to open on Broadway during that time. When COVID hit, my life changed, and I now live elsewhere and only make it to the city about twice a year now. That all being said, I am coming to the city in May to "marathon" some shows. Here is my lineup so far...
Thursday, May 12 - Into the Woods at City Center
Friday, May 13 - The Music Man
Saturday, May 14 - Plaza Suite (matinee) and Funny Girl (evening)
Sunday, May 15 - Take Me Out (matinee) and a possible Sunday evening show
Here's my question - I saw a great regional production of Take Me Out a few years back. After reading the thoughts on here about this current production, I feel like there's not really a "need" to see this production as I could use this show slot for something else. Here are my options...
- Company (I have seen it twice I already, but wouldn't mind seeing it again since I love it so much)
- How I Learned to Drive (I LOVE Mary Louise Parker - I consider her to be one of the greatest dramatic actresses of our time)
- MJ (Not a huge Michael Jackson fan, but I also am not a huge Tina Turner fan and really enjoyed Tina)
- The Skin Of Our Teeth (I know nothing about this, but I love the Beaumont, epic plays, large casts, and a good set design)
- A Strange Loop (I will say that I listened to the entire Off Broadway cast album for this and absolutely hated it, so I'm leaning towards NO here, but I'm curious to hear people's thoughts on how it may play out differently live)
If any Broadway show is not listed here, I either have already seen it, or have no interest in it. Sorry for the long post, but I trust you all and would love some input here :)
Broadway Legend Joined: 4/22/21
I would suggest replacing Take Me Out with How I Learned to Drive or American Buffalo.
Of course, we'll get more reports about The Skin of Our Teeth in the days ahead. Depending on that buzz it also could be a worthy contender.
You could add Little Shop Sunday evening if you have interest in that show. Boyle will be out though.
From your list (and from what I've heard from others) How I Learned to Drive should be high on your list, and Strange Loop. (Although I understand your hesitation!) I haven't seen it yet, but the consensus is that it will likely be the frontrunner for Best New Musical.
Broadway Star Joined: 6/3/18
I also recommend
How I Learned to Drive (I saw the first preview, Mary-Louise Parker is on her way to a 3rd Tony, ofc facing a strong competition from LaChanze's outstanding performance)
A Strange Loop (I saw it off-broadway years back, loved the concept, i did think the part towards the end need some trimming, planning to see it on broadway this month)
Or, maybe see company again, especially if there were u/s in
I am seeing A Strange Loop on Friday night. I'll let you know how it was. I don't know too much about it, but people have told me it's gonna be the big winner this award season, so I'll give it a shot. Love seeing new theatre work.
Broadway Star Joined: 10/14/21
I'm not seeing How I Learned to Drive until later this week, but you and I share a mutual adoration of Mary-Louise Parker, so I'd probably recommend that one! I'm really encouraged by the strong word of mouth about her performance and the production already.
Swing Joined: 4/23/17
I saw Strange Loop in DC earlier this year and I feel like I need to see it a second time to fully absorb it. The music has grown on me too. I thought the message was powerful and I’m glad there is a space on Broadway for black queer voices. I wish for their success.
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