Anyone going to the first preview tomorrow? Very interested to hear how the show is this time around.
Oh I'll be there! Loved it at Paper Mill-- can't wait to see the changes!
Broadway Star Joined: 4/16/07
A hugely enjoyable evening (though not flawless) and incredibly strong for a final dress. That "limited engagement" will become open-ended before opening night.
How was Capathia Jenkins and her number as Medda?
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/16/06
Is the set still the same or has it expanded for the Nederlander stage? Also what are the new songs like?
Broadway Star Joined: 4/16/07
The Medda bit was disappointing. I'm a huge fan of Jenkins but the number isn't much. She does what she can, however the character isn't particularly important and her reappearance in Act II feels pointless.
Most of the Act I score additions-save for Katherine's great number "Watch What Happens"-kind of fell flat for me. Pulitzer's song, "The Bottom Line" is probably the worst, though the Act II reprise was a bit better. Act II's strongest addition was a duet for Katherine and Jack called "Something to Believe In". There was also a quick Brooklyn number that didn't really register.
The show's biggest merits come from Jeremy Jordan and the really fantastic choreography. With such a talented ensemble and those dances it's going to be a quite the crowd-pleaser.
Any chance this might be up on TKTS for tonight's performance?
I haven't seen this on TDF yet.
I was more curious about the TKTS booth tonight....
It's not at the booth either at the moment.
Thanks- you saved me a trip then...
Tonight's performance is sold out, per the box office. The sold out sign is up and there is a cancellation line.
Intermission.
Show is even stronger than it was at Papermill. Cast is outstanding, of course.
The new act 1 song for Pulitzer is much better. A vast improvement. Capathia Jenkins is very good, also an improvement. I wish her song was a little "bigger" but she's great.
There was a standing ovation after Seize the Day.
I wonder if discounts for this will ever exist.
More when I get home, but they've got a huge hit on their hands. It's going to be a tremendous audience pleaser.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/16/06
I'm seeing it next month so looking forward to it. Looks like licensing is going to have to wait a few more years. I imagine a tour is on the cards for next year and possibly international productions.
Well that was definitely one of the most electric first previews I've ever been to- I gotta confess that I think a lot of the material is pretty mediocre but you just can't argue with a good ol musical theatre show stopper- and Newsies has them in spades-- the choreography is awfully sensational--and Jeremy Jordan is delivering a truly delightful central performance. Jenkins definitely should be given more or better to do and I think a couple of songs from Act 1 need to rethought (or replaced) but golly what a fun night at the theatre. Big hit for sure.
I'm just hoping that it's selling well enough for it to at least extend into Sept.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/16/06
I reckon the limited run will become open run but I reckon they'll wait until the reviews are out.
So, who is the target audience for Newsies? Kids/Families? Adults?
Broadway Legend Joined: 8/14/07
Target audience is families and gay men
Thanks. Who'd have thought those two groups shared a common interest?!
Videos