I was also there this afternoon and had an incredible time. I went in hoping it would be good, and it exceeded my expectations.
I spent the entire afternoon on cloud nine, thinking to myself: "This is exactly what a Broadway Musical should be, in the grandest sense of the term." When the ensemble comes out in their colorful costumes during "Put on Your Sunday Clothes," I teared up because I was so overwhelmed with joy. When Midler appeared at the top of the stairs in that red dress, I clapped so hard I could feel my hands throbbing throughout "Hello, Dolly!"
As has been stated elsewhere on this thread, Midler is delivering an excellent performance, and it's partially because she looks like she's having the time of her life up there. It's so wonderful to see such a renowned diva clearly enjoying her craft, and not just enjoying the accolades that it reaps.
I'm a huge Gavin Creel fan so I was bummed to see that he was out this afternoon, but Christian Dante White was charming and in great voice. Plus, now I have a good excuse to make a return visit!
When Dolly notes that Irene is crying at the beginning of "Before the Parade Passes By" and Irene responds "Oh, Dolly! The world is full of wonderful things," I found myself smiling and nodding in agreement. And whenever you find something -- a piece of art, a friend, a lover -- that makes you feel that way, it's a truly, truly beautiful thing.