My Next Trip

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 12:52am

Hi all! Some people seem to enjoy when I create a thread about my upcoming trips then post my thoughts on each show. In the past I’ve usually started the thread because I needed advice about certain shows or helping me decide between shows but I’ve already decided this time. So feel free to skip this thread if it doesnt interest you obviously.

I knew I had a trip coming up, but because my site was dragging their feet I just found out today that I’m going back next week. So I quickly bought tickets for shows for next week plus I’m going to be in Secaucus, New Jersey the week after that so I’m gonna come in to see one show during that week too.

Monday, February 17 - Girl from the North Country
Tuesday, February 18 - Moulin Rouge! (second visit)
Wednesday, February 19 - The Inheritance 1 & 2 (second visit)
Thursday, February 20 - Wicked (one of my favorites; finally seeing it on Broadway after seeing it five times on tour, spurred on by the casting of Alexandra Billings as Madame Morrible)
Friday, February 21 - West Side Story (second visit)

Friday, February 28 - Six (will take train in from Secaucus, NJ)

Even though I got some good seats for a somewhat cheaper price, still added up to a pretty penny.

Girl From The North Country - CENTER MEZZANINE - Row G - $95.25

Moulin Rouge! - CENTER ORCH - Row E - $197.70

The Inheritance Pt. 1 - LEFT ORCHESTRA - Row F - $95.25

The Inheritance Pt. 2 - LEFT ORCHESTRA - Row F - $75.25

Wicked - RIGHT ORCH, Row DD - $123.45

West Side Story - Left Front Mezzanine - Row F - $105.25

Six - MEZZ, Row E - $113.70

Updated On: 2/11/20 at 12:52 AM

[bear88]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 3:53am

My career path should have involved frequent NYC trips. Where did I go wrong? I got a good Elphaba when I saw Wicked in a wife-and-daughter driven decision, so I had no complaints even though I wouldn’t have seen it again left to my own devices. You’ll enjoy it.

Your most expensive ticket seems like a decent deal, considering seat location.

[bwayphreak234]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 7:44am

Great lineup! Seeing Wicked on Broadway is a whole different beast than seeing it on tour. The set design extends well past the proscenium, and it is beautiful. 

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 10:54am

Thanks @bear88 and @bwayphreak234.

Wicked is already one of my favorite musicals so I think I’m in for a great time. I already know that Ginna Claire Mason is a great Glinda as she was my Glinda the last three times I saw Wicked (in the span of one week) in Tulsa.

I definitely benefitted from Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing policy. I think my Wicked and Moulin Rouge! tickets were relatively good deals because I only needed one seat and these seats were by themselves with no available seats next to them.

I used discount codes for GFTNC and The Inheritance and grabbed a recently released cheaper seat in the mezzanine for WSS. Should be interesting to see it from there as last time I was on the aisle from Row D Right Orchestra. For Six, I opted for front row of rear right mezzanine (furthest seat to the right). From what I can tell, view should be good. I tried listening to OLCR and couldn’t really get into it and the recent BroadwayCon performance video I saw didn’t wow me. (It’s not unusual for me to not get into a cast recording before I see a show and then love it afterwards) So I wasn’t able to pay more for what is reportedly more of a 75 minute concert. If it wows me, I can always see it again from a closer seat (hopefully with a discount code) in the future.

I also lucked out because Olivo is usually out on Tuesdays, but she is in for my performance and Tveit is out the next week, but also in for my performance. I know others don’t love their chemistry but I loved it when I saw it back in September. It will be interesting to see it from the orchestra since last time I was in the mezzanine. And I’m glad Danny is back. He was my favorite performer last time. I don’t usually see shows more than twice on Broadway so this may be my last time seeing it before it tours. I’m glad I’m getting the OBC again.

[RWPrincess]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 12:12pm

I always enjoy your trip threads so thank you for this new one. How fun to be able to travel to NYC so often on someone else's dime.

I saw Wicked in November on Audience Rewards redemption and I was all the way in the rear orchestra. I felt like I was too far away so I definitely plan to go back at some point perhaps when there is a new Elphaba.  Sounds like your seat is much closer than mine. Ginna Claire is terrific I agree.

I'm seeing SIX first preview on Thursday. I also didn't understand all the hype about the show until I actually saw it in Chicago last year. Now I love it so I hope you have an enjoyable experience when you go.

Looking forward to your reviews!

[Wick3]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 12:53pm

Have a great trip! I actually think the prices you paid were really good deals!!!! That's the nice thing about going to Broadway during low season! :)

As far as seating goes for SIX, I saw it in London and it's practically a concert so I think you'll be fine. I sat in front row mezz and loved it! I could see faces and facial expressions but didn't feel I needed to be super close to enjoy or appreciate it more. Have a great trip!

Have you been to the Gershwin before? The theater is HUGE and I recommend spending at least 20 mins checking out all the Broadway memorabilia and portraits in its lobby area. I still can't believe how long Wicked has been in that theater (the show before Wicked was the Oklahoma! revival starring Patrick Wilson.)

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 1:03pm

I haven’t been to the Gershwin before! I’m slowly chipping away at the theatres I haven’t been in before. After this trip, I’ll only have 8 left.

Thanks for reminding me about getting there a little early beforehand to check out the theatre. I’m working downtown until at least 4:30 and I squeezed in a reservation at Azalea (I believe next door to the Gershwin) at 5.30 so hopefully I’ll have time!

Updated On: 2/11/20 at 01:03 PM

[Wick3]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 1:15pm

Cool which 8 theaters are left in your left in your list??? 

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 1:21pm

Wick3 said: "Cool which 8 theaters are left in your left in your list???"

1. Ambassador Theatre
2. August Wilson Theatre
3. Cort Theatre
4. Lyceum Theatre
5. Majestic Theatre 
6. Minskoff Theatre
7. Samuel J Friedman Theatre
8. Stephen Sondheim Theatre

I know, I know. I really need to see Phantom on B’way, but I had such a meh response to it on tour (I know it’s reportedly much better on B’way) that I can’t get excited about seeing it again. I know I could do a Thursday matinee, but a leisurely lunch plus shopping always wins. 

[Jarethan]

Posted: 2/11/20 at 10:24pm

Miles2Go2 said: "I haven’t been to the Gershwin before! I’m slowly chipping away at the theatres I haven’t been in before. After this trip, I’ll only have 8 left.

Thanks for reminding me about getting there a little early beforehand to check out the theatre. I’m working downtown until at least 4:30 and I squeezed in a reservation at Azalea (I believe next door tothe Gershwin) at 5.30 so hopefully I’ll have time!"

The names of the people who have been inducted into the Broadway Theatre Hall of Fame are throughout the lobby, by year.  I have always loved looking at it, but have not been in the theatre once since the original cast left, a long time ago.

i would recommend you get there early because I would be shocked if you didn’t get a kick out of it...just a bunch of names, but the history associated with those names is amazing.  I too have seen the show many times, but only once in NYC.  Managed to see it twice in DC, and also in Richmond (lived there for 13 years), Chicago (on business), St. Louis (on business),  Boston (summer on Cape Cod), and Tampa (winter in Sarasota).

i always hated the Gershwin auditorium itself until I saw shows in real barns, as in most of the cities above.  Being in those theatres almost makes it possible to appreciate the Gershwin, Minskoff, and Marquis.

[OKBroadwayFan]

Posted: 2/12/20 at 2:48pm

I finally made it to the last theater for me---saw Lion King last month.  I have now been to every Broadway house.    We have a lot in common--I live in Tulsa and travel to NYC quite frequently for work.   I have seen a many a show as a single ticket.     Enjoy your trip!  I hope to get back to NYC later this month.

[Lot666]

Posted: 2/12/20 at 2:55pm

Miles2Go2 said: "I really need to see Phantom on B’way, but I had such a meh response to it on tour (I know it’s reportedly much better on B’way) that I can’t get excited about seeing it again."

Did you see an earlier tour that was based on the London/Broadway productions, or the recent Cameron Mackintosh "reimagining"? If the latter, you should definitely see in at The Majestic; it's a very different, and infinitely better, show. 

 

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/12/20 at 3:03pm

It was over 10 years ago so I’m not sure which version that would’ve been.

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/18/20 at 1:00am

Saw Girl From the North Country tonight. Not much to add. Bob Dylan’s music has never been sung better. Great performances. Good if muddled script. Unfortunately songs often have little relevance to the script. I still got a little misty at the end. Still glad I went. Looking forward to hopefully OBCR.

No window card available yet. Just bought magnet. Most of cast except Mare Winningham stage doored.

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/19/20 at 1:56am

Saw Moulin Rouge! tonight. Ashley Loren was in as Satine.

This time I was Row E Center Orchestra thanks to dynamic pricing and it being February. Last time I was left mezzanine. It was thrilling to see the show from so close but I think it’s best viewed on your first trip from the mezzanine as it offers a better view of the grandeur of the production. Still, from the preshow through Truth Beauty Freedom Love, I was in pure euphoria.

Regarding performances, I found Loren’s Satine too vanilla, especially during Act 1. She was more Grease’s Sandy when she needed a bit more Sally Bowles. She sings lovely, but I missed Karen Olivo’s powerhouse vocals as well as her ferocious fierceness. Not for one second, did I believe this Satine had been pimped out by her father at 13. Doing a small survey in the line to the men’s room and at stage door, it seemed others who’ve seen Olvo agreed.

From Row E, it is more apparent that Aaron’s performance isn’t over-the-top like everyone else’s (minus Loren’s). This muted his performance at first. However, his (and Loren’s) Your Song still elicited tears (some may recall my personal reaction to this song), but nowhere near the uncontrollable tears during my first viewing. I also loved their Elephant Love Medley more than the first time. I was in the minority in that I did feel Tveit/Olivo did have chemistry on my previous visit, but as Act 1 built, I did feel Tveit/Loren also had chemistry.

Before I move on to Act 2, a note about Danny Burstein. Just give the man his damn Tony now. He was over-the-top in full emcee mode when the show called for it, but also gave a smaller, more grounded, nuanced performance when called for. Given what we know he is dealing with in his marriage, I just couldn’t love him and his committed performance more.

Now Act 2: Wow. Just Wow. Backstage Romance is the most euphoric moment, especially from Row E, I’ve ever experienced in a theater. El Tango De Roxanne isn’t far behind. Also, Loren’s different take on Satine played better in Act 2. I started off with controlled sobbing then uncontrolled sobs (this is more than I recall last time) at Satine’s death/Your Song reprise/Come What May. Maybe Loren's less gritty perfect is the reason. I don’t know.

Obviously, we still have shows yet to open (I see Six next Friday), but I still think one shouldn’t rule out Moulin Rouge’s chances of winning more than technical awards at the Tony Awards in June.

Merchandise Booth: I bought the bracelet and for $5 more they threw in the L’Amour necklace.

Stage door: Robyn Hurder, Tam Mutu, Ashley Loren, and one member of the ensemble came out and signed.

Audience behavior: i think the show encourages laughter at recognition of known songs, so that doesn’t bother me so much. When things get more serious in Act 2, this stopped.  However, the talking to their seat mates whenever these songs began did bother me a lot. Unfortunately, these people were invariably in the rows behind me and I can only hear them during the quiet moments so if I said anything there’s a chance the cast members would’ve also heard. Also the lady and her boyfriend who kept eating their red licorice during quiet moments in Act 1 out of a wrinkly package needed to stop. Being so close to the stage, it was tempting to mouth along to the lyrics early on in act one but I soon controlled myself. However when I talked to a couple and their daughter at stage door, they were sitting next to people who were singing fall out especially during Crazy Rolling.

Glad I saw it again tonight. Even missing Olivo’s grittier performance, I still had a great time.
 

Updated On: 2/19/20 at 01:56 AM

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/20/20 at 12:14am

Saw both parts again today. It allowed me to perhaps more objectively observe its faults while also re-appreciating its strengths. Jake Odmark was in as Young Man 7/Jasper/Paul Wilcox. At stage door, he said it was only his second time going on.

After seeing both parts again, I agree Part 1 is stronger as a whole. That’s mainly because I think Part 2 has more melodrama, most significantly in Part 2 - Act 1. However, Part Two - Act 3 has so many spectacular reflections on love and loss and how they are linked, most significantly powered by Lois Smith’s performance. Tony Goldwyn was even better than when I saw his first performance last month. I hope both are not forgotten come Tony season. I’m pulling for Lois in particular to win.

I cried quite a bit during Part 1, most significantly at the end of Act 1 and Act 3. But I sobbed at the end of Part 2 to the point that the lady behind me offered me Kleenex after curtain call and asked me if I was okay before she left. Lots of thinking about my friends who died and lost loves. I was able to pick up better on all the various form of inheritance, too. 

I bought the magnet which they were out of last time. Then when I returned for Part 2, I bought the Names tee and the Broadway script which they had unexpectedly received between Parts 1 & 2.

Pretty much the whole cast minus Lois Smith stage doored and they all signed my copy of the script. They were all lovely in the freezing cold, taking their time to talk with us. Samuel H. Levine even remembered me from last time due to my fashion sense.

The comparison to Rent dawned on me today. Other than some common themes, both have been faulted for perceived failings. However, both have a powerful effect on me and others. They’re messy, flawed and incredibly powerful. I know this may not be the strongest play that’s opened this season, but emotionally I hope it does well at the Tony Awards although I know it’s got stiff competition from plays that are better reviewed. I’d see gladly see it again. Speaking of which..,

One of the ladies behind me at Pt. 1 said she is friends with one of the producers and she said they intend to keep pumping money into it until Tony season so that all the voters have a chance to see it with the hopes that if it wins Tony awards that they might have a better chance towards recoupment although I find that doubtful. Tony awards really only matter for best musical in relation to box office. But anything that keeps this play running for more audiences to have an opportunity to experience it I am all for.

Updated On: 2/20/20 at 12:14 AM

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/21/20 at 1:14am

Saw Wicked tonight. It is one of my favorite shows, but had never seen on B’way. Only on tour. But bought a ticket because Alexandra Billings (Madame Morrible) was cast then was worried because she’s been sick all week. But when I entered the theatre, her name was on the board so I was happy. I was a little disappointed because Ginna Claire Mason was out and Brittney Johnson was in as Glinda. The last time I saw Wicked (3x in the span of a week) 2 years ago on tour through Tulsa, GCM was Glinda and she was perfection. Still I was excited to see a new (to me) Glinda and Elphaba (Hannah Corneau).

My seat was Row D, Seat 4, Right Orchestra. While I wouldn’t exactly call my seat obstructed, some of the ensemble or scenery occasionally blocked my view of things happening mid-stage or upstage. Of course, I knew what was happening based on previous viewings so it was just less than optimal. I wish I had picked a seat a little further back in center orchestra, but as I recall those seats were more and now I understand why.

I have to say that I still think the best Wicked cast I’ve seen to date is still when I saw it 3× 2 years ago in Tulsa. My cast then included GCM (Glinda), Mary Kate Morrissey (Elphaba), Jody Gelb (Madame Morrible), Jason Graae (The Wonderful Wizard of Oz), and Mili Diaz (Nessarose).

Brittney Johnson’s performance was a different take on Glinda. Hers is a less ditzy, more grounded Glinda. No helium voice here.

I was moved to tears more than once (I’m Not That Girl, As Long As You’re Mine, No Good Deed, For Good).

Went a bit crazy at merch table. Before show, I got the “New York Soecisl”, which includes t-shirt, magnet and mug, all exclusive to the NYC production. Plus the socks. At intermission. I picked up the window card which I got signed at stage door.

At stage door, Brittney Johnson, Alexandra Billings, Riley Costello (Boq), and Shoba Narayan (Nessarose) came out.

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/21/20 at 11:37pm

Saw West Side Story again tonight. I liked it even more than when I saw it last month. I think that’s due to a few factors.

1. They’ve integrated the video better into the show during previews.
2. No understudies in tonight which means I finally got Isaac Powell and Shereen Pimentel who were in great voice and have great chemistry. While I didn’t cry, I more acutely felt Tony’s death. I also feel other cast members have grown into their roles.
3. I sat left front mezzanine right off the center aisle. Great view. Last time I was in Row D Right Orchestra (aisle seat). What I traded in the immediacy of being so close was worth it tonight because I could take in the whole production including the dancing so much better. I’m guessing probably the best seat would be to be further back center orchestra so that the videos are actually directly in the background behind the actors during certain scenes. Still I really liked my seat.

It’s pretty clear that this is a polarizing production. I really, really liked it. It was a great way to end my trip. I’m tired so don’t feel like commenting and defending the revival against all the common complaints.

I bought the black “The Anthem of NYC” sweatshirt.

[cookie17]

Posted: 2/22/20 at 2:24pm

"I have to say that I still think the best Wicked cast I’ve seen to date is still when I saw it 3× 2 years ago in Tulsa. My cast then included GCM (Glinda), Mary Kate Morrissey (Elphaba), Jody Gelb (Madame Morrible), Jason Graae (The Wonderful Wizard of Oz), and Mili Diaz (Nessarose)."

 

Totally agree with you on this! I saw the same cast in Indianapolis and it sets a very high bar for me! If only Ginna Claire and Mary Kate could play the roles again - I'd go see it in a heartbeat.

[Impossible2]

Posted: 2/22/20 at 2:29pm

When are you seeing Six?

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/22/20 at 2:32pm

Impossible2 said: "When are you seeing Six?"

Friday 

[gibsons2]

Posted: 2/22/20 at 2:42pm

Your Inheritance reviews make me want to see this play so badly, but unfortunately, now that the closing date is announced, I figured I won't be able to squeeze in any more shows till then... I might just go to the theater to purchase some of the merchandise while it's still avalable. 

Although I'm seeing Six earlier than you, I'm looking forward to your review.

[Miles2Go2]

Posted: 2/23/20 at 7:49pm

Even though it’s futile and ridiculous to rank art against other art, I still tend to do that after each trip. This trip was more challenging in the ranking process as I only saw one show entirely new to me (GFTNC). So here we go:

1. The Inheritance (despite its flaws, this show cuts me to the core)
2. Moulin Rouge! (So exciting to see from 5th row center orchestra. Loved everything on my second visit except I missed Karen’s Satine so, so much)
3. West Side Story (I loved this even more on my second visit. I do wish I felt a bit more emotionally connected, but it has so much about it I do love)
4. Wicked (one of my favorite musicals; not my absolutely favorite cast; still felt emotionally connected; many tears)
5. Girl From The North Country (great, great music; Dylan’s music has never sounded better; muddled script which also rarely intersects with the music)

Updated On: 2/23/20 at 07:49 PM

[Impossible2]

Posted: 2/23/20 at 7:51pm

Miles2Go2 said: "Even though it’s futile and ridiculous to rank art against other art, I still tend to do that after each trip. This trip was more challenging in the ranking process as I only saw one show entirely new to me. So here we go:

1. The Inheritance (despite its flaws, this show cuts me to the core)
2. Moulin Rouge! (So exciting to see from 5th row center orchestra. Loved everything on my second visit except I missed Karen’s Satine so, so much)
3. West Side Story (I loved this even more on my second visit. I do wish I felt a bit more emotionally connected, but it has so much about it I do love)
4. Wicked (one of my favorite musicals; not my absolutely favorite cast; still felt emotionally connected; many tears)
5. Girl From The North Country (great, great music; Dylan’s music has never sounded better; muddled script which also rarely intersects with the music)"

Six will jump straight to Number 1 and you’ll be booking again for Saturday

[steven22]

Posted: 2/23/20 at 7:56pm

Miles2Go2, nice reviews! Glad you enjoyed