If I had to guess at a theme though the reviews -- which we presume will spill forth in 24-72 hours -- it will be a thoughtful appreciation of Jackman's and Foster's belief in musical theater as culturally foundational, the art form's survival worth fighting for in the pandemic-and-politics-challenged America of 2022. The beleaguered production arrives with the stars' unimpeachable good will a part of its DNA. They endured a postponement, a cast unable to assemble together for early previews, both leads weathering infection and illness, and then a tentative return after a shut-down This costly, high ticket entertainment celebrating both Broadway's musical theater legacy and the industry's ability to re-launch with a needed mega-hit, is a specific kind of root-for. The stars are beloved, if for different reasons, and together they're very special right now: their earnest desire to give us what we're plunking down our money for is no small part of the event.
"I'm a comedian, but in my spare time, things bother me." Garry Shandling