Even thought I didn't really enjoy it and didn't think it was Broadway quality, I think this show would be a great choice for high school and community theatre. I see this show having a very strong regional theatre life.
Mr. Nowack said: "BC, what exactly did you love so much about it? I've only heard the album and while I thought it was OK I just can't see what would be so good about it. Asking seriously, no snark intended!"
I think the show's score works best on stage, rather than for the album (similar to how I feel about shows such as Falsettos).
For me, Groundhog Day—which is carried by a tour de force, legendary performance by Andy Karl—simply felt completely uncontrived. It was so refreshing to see a show that was so genuinely funny and so genuinely touching. I find it's more common these days to see shows where musical numbers and lines feel placed specifically to elicit an audience response. I didn't feel that way at all at Groundhog Day. It was an exciting ride, and I never once looked at my watch during the show. I understand that others vehemently disagree, but it remains one of my favorite shows on Broadway.
Broadway Legend Joined: 12/2/10
I think it's interesting that this is created by the Matilda people and the reviews there were also all over the place. Matilda has never been a show that has evoked a general consensus of opinion...and it seems to be the same thing here. Many loves, many hates and a number of blahs in between...
Featured Actor Joined: 4/28/16
For me, Groundhog Day—which is carried by a tour de force, legendary performance by Andy Karl—simply felt completely uncontrived. It was so refreshing to see a show that was so genuinely funny and so genuinely touching. I find it's more common these days to see shows where musical numbers and lines feel placed specifically to elicit an audience response. I didn't feel that way at all at Groundhog Day. It was an exciting ride, and I never once looked at my watch during the show. I understand that others vehemently disagree, but it remains one of my favorite shows on Broadway.
Saw the show this afternoon with my sister and we loved it. Loved it. Laughed heartily out loud throughout much of Act 1, very moved at times in Act 2. Andy Karl was as many have noted fabulous. I was thoroughly, thoroughly entertained.
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Haven't seen a turntable used that much since Les Miz.
Don't see Come From Away then The turntable is practically a cast member.
Stand-by Joined: 6/5/17
sabrelady said: "Haven't seen a turntable used that much since Les Miz.
Don't see Come From Away then The turntable is practically a cast member.
"
lmao you made my day.
Matter of personal taste I guess! I've seen it 3 times and brought different friends each time, and they all loved it.
You mentioned Andy doesn't have a powerful solo number - did you not notice "Hope"?? The vocals alone are amazing!
Malka2 said: "Matter of personal taste I guess! I've seen it 3 times and brought different friends each time, and they all loved it.
You mentioned Andy doesn't have a powerful solo number - did you not notice "Hope"?? The vocals alone are amazing!
His vocals are serviceable.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/28/15
His vocals were insane on "Hope". I thought I was sitting in "Rocky" for a second with that song, he has an incredible voice. If he didn't, he wouldn't be starring in a Broadway show. Love this show and he was SO wonderful at the stage door. Warm, friendly, funny, and just plain awesome.
Updated On: 7/16/17 at 03:53 AM
^I agree that he has a sensational voice and is a great performer and person, but his vocal performance in GD left a lot to be desired, IMO. I think it may have just been the way in which the score was written though. I don't think it was Karl's fault.
Broadway Legend Joined: 5/28/15
I think you are right, much like "Far From Heaven" with Steven Pasquale. When I saw that tiny little off Broadway show, I did not now who he was, and the score did nothing to showcase his voice. His character just seemed like a weak, cheating loser who hated himself. The score was quite poor.
It was not until the following year with his jaw dropping vocals in "The Bridges of Madison County" where I learned he could sing, and was honestly one of the best singers on Broadway IMO. I think most people could sing the score for GHD, but so few have the presence of Andy Karl. That is why I think people should see it, because the score just can't really do the show justice.
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