I'd DEFINITELY second the recommendation for XANADU at the Helen Hayes Theatre. You won't regret seeing it - It's hilarity to the umpteenth degree, starring the uproariously enchanting Kerry Butler and the Broadway buck himself, Cheyenne Jackson, along with the legendary Mr. Tony Roberts and the dynamic duo of mischief and mayhem in Mary Testa and Jackie Hoffman. With a clever book by Douglas Carter Beane, 'all-too-familiar' score featuring the 80's tunes of the Elctric Light Orchestra, and a cast of bright, young, fresh, energetic characters (both human and muse) on rollerskates, you truly cannot and will not go wrong!
As for plays? Maybe try to get tix to CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF playing a limited engagement (thru June 22nd) at the Broadhurst Theatre. With Debbie Allen at the helm, this production goes down in history as the first production, as sanctioned by the Tennessee Williams Estate, to offer all-African American cast portraying the classic characters. With the likes of James Earl Jones (yes, *that* James Earl Jones) as 'Big Daddy', The Cosby Show's Phylicia Rashad as his wife 'Big Mama', Terrence Howard (making his B'way debut) as their son 'Brick', and the extremely poised and poignant performance of Anika Noni Rose as 'Maggie the Cat', this is a must-see cast (and) a must-see show! Of course, on here, you'll find mixed opinions - it's one of those love/hate relationships, I'd assume. Critics were mixed, but PRAISED Ms. Rose for her performance as the title character. Star power being what it is, this particular piece being as masterfully-crafted as it is, I think you'll enjoy it for everything it's worth!
As far as dining goes, I suggest The Pig 'n' Whistle on West 47th (burgers, sandwiches, etc., etc.) - Great food, fine wait staff, extremely reasonably priced dishes, nice atmosphere, too. Another suggestion would be Ellen's Stardust Diner on West 51st. It's a really lovely joint, the wait staff SINGS! I've had the plesaure of dining there a few summers back and enjoyed the food (and) entertainment a whole heckova lot. In short, I won't press any more than I already have. Again, these are just .02, and I wholeheartedly wish you that you enjoy your trip!
Best,
- Mike
Updated On: 3/12/08 at 01:59 AM
