I'm surprised by negative reaction to this production. It has an appealing cast, that full orchestra and superb choreography (with Josh Bergasse making the strongest, most confident Broadway debut of any choreographer in recent memory). After two failed revivals (one that was rather good, one that was not), it was brave to try it again on Broadway, and I really wish it well. Those dismissing it as a cartoon ... well, it IS a cartoon, and it has its moments of Comden & Green anarchic zaniness that I suppose might not be for all tastes.
For the poster who was looking for "meaning" from the show... there are musicals in many eras that were just seeking to provide a good time. Nevertheless, there's an undercurrent of sadness and longing that is in On the Town, that reaches its zenith in "Some Other Time," which may be one of the greatest songs in musical theatre. For the time it was written and when it takes place, when America was at war, the feeling that they are singing about meeting up "some other time," but for the sailors, there may not be "some other time". I think then the show's message of finding love, even for a moment, becomes palpable, particularly in Claire's opening lyrics: "Twenty-four hours can go so fast/You look around, the day has passed. When you're in love, time is precious stuff; Even a lifetime isn't enough." If you want meaning, look no further than that.
Begin at the beginning and go on till you come to the end: then stop.
Updated On: 1/19/15 at 08:34 AM