In the Heights or Xanadu- Page 2

[BroadwayChica]

Posted: 4/13/08 at 9:37pm

TheActr97J, I think that's a very generalized view of the show's fanbase. Not all of us are crazy, or overemotional, or completely deluded. I respect your opinion, especially since it's not expressed in a detrimental way, as much as I disagree. I think that introducing not just hip-hop, but the sounds and music of the Afro-Caribbean stylings and influences (and very accurately so), to the musical theatre tradition is in itself ground-breaking. Add to that the way this show is the first to present a positive, and in many ways completely authentic, portrayal of latinos on Broadway (and it's the first to do so from the point of view of someone from that background), an argument can certainly be made that it's revolutionary. It's not just a "fun" show. To some of us, it's a very important step forward in the construction of latino identity in the US. That may not mean much to some, but it's vital to those of us who are latino, and are subjected to prejudice and misconceptions about our cultures on a daily basis. I'm not suggesting it's worthy of a Pulitzer (nor have I ever said so), but I don't think the show's merits can be so easily dismissed. As someone in a tv show I love once said, I'll take *any* step forward.

[Mealz1042]

Posted: 4/13/08 at 9:46pm

haha, no I respect people's opinions if he feels that way about the show that is fine but I feel the need to explain that others have the opposite view of this to someone who has not yet seen it. I think all sides should be represented.

I think that this show is amazing, mind blowing, fantastic. I think there is so much talent in the cast (karen olivo can belt the hell out of those songs, Andrea Burns and Robin De Jesus are just hilarious, and don't even get me started on the amazingness known as lin-manuel miranda.) Not to mention the fantastic set design that would be worth seeing alone. It's hip and modern but in a subtle kind of way (as in not "omg we're like so totally hip and new so come see our show because we're so unique and revolutionary" like some shows I know of) The music and choreography are exciting and enthralling to someone in the audience. It makes you wish you could get up and dance. I think the story is a very nice one and the Abuela character and story hits very close to home for me. Also the story behind it is very inspiring. Lin wrote this show when he was a sophomore in college. It's also been cool to see it evolve from off-broadway, to previews, to the show as it is now. Even though I don't know them personally I always feel very proud of everyone involved when it gets rewarding reviews. And while we're on the subject, there are a lot of cute and clever one liners that are anything but pedestrian.

But anyway, clearly I think ITH is a fantastic show that is totally worth seeing but again it completely depends on the mood you are in, what you are looking for, and your sense of humor.

[abitoftap]

Posted: 4/14/08 at 8:01am

Saw ITH last Wednesday, and Xanadu on Saturday.

No comparison..ITH is probably one the best new shows I've ever seen. Involving, open, moving forward but respecting the past.

I hoped Xanadu would be fun as a whole bunch of people have said..but OK, nothing more. Not crazy even.

So..ITH

[LittlexFallxOfxRain]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 4:17pm

Alright guys! Thanks so much for your suggestions and and kind comments. I didn't want to start a fight, I just wanted opinions. I'm seeing In the Heights, but that doesn't mean I'm never going to see Xanadu at all. I think that they both sound like incredable shows.

Thanks again!

[withoutlovewithoutU]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 5:19pm

I saw both of those shows last week and loved them both, but if you have to choose one I'm glad your going with "In the Heights". It's really worth seeing and has found a very special place in my heart

[abitoftap]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 5:41pm

thanks for reminding me...the best line in xanadu

"Oh please, Over at 'Gypsy' Patti LuPone hasn't even alienated her first daughter yet!" Mary Testa in "Xanadu"

[withoutlovewithoutU]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 5:48pm

haha I glad I could help! I was laughing so hard at that line

[BDavis0092]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 6:18pm

In The Heights is a must see.

[sally1112]

Posted: 4/15/08 at 6:43pm

I just saw Xanadu last week and the second it was over I wanted to extend my stay in New York so that I could see it again.
My seats were perfect front row, so that helped, but the show is fun and the performers are up there having so much fun that one can't help but get caught up in it with them.