NYC Trip Report

[ian80]

Posted: 5/6/06 at 2:54pm

Just got back from a wonderful four days in NYC with a friend. Had a blast, as always, and thought I would share my theatre thoughts. Saw four shows -- two new, two old (old by ATC standards) -- Wedding Singer, Sweeney Todd, Drowsy Chaperone, and Light in the Piazza.

Wedding Singer was Tuesday night. It didn't impress either of us too much. It was fun, but there wasn't much to talk about afterwards. The humour was pretty stale, especially if you've seen the movie. That said, the music was actually really good (I could see picking up the recording), the cast fantastic (I even liked the leads!), and the sets fun. It just didn't come together for me. We weren't disappointed we saw it though, it was a fun show to start off the trip with. And for the record, everyone around us seemed to be enjoying it a lot more than us, if that makes anyone feel better (or worse?).

We then caught the Wednesday mat. of Sweeney. This did impress (the show aside, these preformers are pulling off something to be seen). I thought the entire concept worked great. It was my first exposure to the show, but I had read a three page synopsis before and followed it fine (and would have still followed had I not read about it before hand). What is most impressive, I thought, was that you forget the instruments are onstage ten minutes into the show. It doesn't distract; I think Doyle deserves some huge credit for that. Also, it was the first time I've seen Patti perform and it will stay with me. She's fantastic. And quite a trouper, I think she took about as much spit as Edward Hibbert takes in Drowsy. If you still haven't seen this production, I would definitely recommend it. Even if the concept doesn't appeal to you, seeing these actors pull off what they do is worth the admission alone. Was happy to give a standing 'O' to this one (unlike Wedding singer, where I was forced to stand if I wanted to see anything).

Next was Drowsy. Add me to the list of 'loved-its'. Sure, there are quibbles. And they've been put out there...most of which I can't even begin to understand (who CARES if he doesn't flip the record or if such a recording could exist? My gawd). I sat through the entire show with a silly grin on my face. I can't imagine not having fun at this show. Even non-theatre geeks should have a good time; this show is hardly "inside". The humour is universal -- everyone can relate to having an obsession. The cast is all wonderful. I wish Sutton had been given even more to do; she was brilliant. I think there was just the right amount of everyone else though. These were, admittedly, 2D characters and they wouldn't have stayed as funny as they were for much longer had they been featured more. I'm not including Man in the Chair in this. I thought he had a good enough amount of depth. I would have to agree with those who felt he could have been a little deeper, but this is minor, as the show still definitely works the way it is (the ending touched me, and it wouldn't have if the character didn't feel real to me). I think my biggest problem was with "Accident Waiting to Happen" -- there was potential for some really funny staging and impressive moves, but nothing much happens. The set for it was great though. Bottom line, I left the show giddy and wanting more. That is what I look for most from a Broadway experience. I really hope this show can find an audience, it deserves to stay around for awhile (plus, I want to see it again!). Oh yes, and I happily waited for and gave Bob Martin a standing ovation, I can't imagine the show with anyone other than him, and hope we grabs the Tony.

Finally, on Thursday, we saw Light in the Piazza. I think everything to be said about this production has been said. It is a beautiful piece of theatre. Victoria was beyond amazing, the was music wonderful, and the physical production breath-taking. Even though it is being aired on PBS, I'm glad I saw it, as I think it needs to be seen live, in the space, to be fully appreciated.

Of course we did more than just theatre. I can't say how much I love your city (even if I'm not sure I'd ever live there, but that's just me!). Had never been to the Guggenheim and finally made it (I always seem to try getting in on a Thursday, forgetting that I didn't get in the time before for the same reason). The Smith exhibit is something to behold, especially his earlier work, which gets much less exposure, and which really needs to be experienced in person, where you can explore the sculptures...but I'm getting off topic now. Go see it if you can.

And last, but not least, Cast Party! How fun is this?! Christine Pedi did a wonderful Babs number. Everyone else was fun, if not all great. One of the most entertaining aspects of the evening is watching Jim walk around making faces to himself and others when the performer onstage is not the most talented. I'll definitely being going back next time we're in the city.

Anyway, had a great time and can't wait to return!

[RentBoy86]

Posted: 5/6/06 at 3:13pm

glad you had a good time. Wedding Singer rocked my socks. And I loved Sweeney as well.

[Steve2]

Posted: 5/6/06 at 7:02pm

Thanks for taking the time to write such a detailed review. I am glad you had an excellent trip!