Leading Actor Joined: 1/26/19
Hello!
(Disclaimer: I do know that Broadway isn't reopening any time soon, that these are times of justified civil unrest, I'm not going anywhere tomorrow).
I've been planning a NYC trip for a while, and it's my first time in the US after being a lifelong Broadway fan. Since it's not a cheap trip for me and I won't be able to do it every year, I would like to maximize the shows I'd be able to see while also meeting new places around NYC. What are some easy places that host national tours?
I've been thinking about DC, but been wondering what other places are near NYC and are worthy of a visit as well (also, I notice it's impossible to predict what will be playing and where, hence why I'm taking several options). Any ideas?
Also try New Haven, CT! I've gone up there a few times to see tours. A few hours on Metro North or Amtrak.
Understudy Joined: 2/3/12
Philadelphia is a relatively short train ride away. I think it's about 75 minutes on Amtrak. I live in South Jersey just outside of Philly and look at NYC as very close by, getting in a few tikes a month.
Philadelphia is an amazing city, especially if you are visiting the US. It's the birthplace of our nation. There are lots of great historical sites and museums and some amazing restaurants.
Not sure when you are planning to come stateside. I'm guessing at this point you are looking to 2021. Tour wise we are meant to have Ain't Too Proud in March, Oklahoma in May, The Lion King in June and Hadestown in July. ATP, Lion King, and Hadestown will all be playing the Academy of Music. It's not an ideal venue for musicals, but it is a gorgeous opera house, one of oldest (if the oldest) still working opera houses in the country. Oklahoma will be at the Forrest, which is a quintessential road house, designed just like a Broadway house. It hosted many an out of town tryout in the Golden Age, Funny Girl and Chicago amongst them.
We also have Walnut Street Theatre, which is the oldest still operating theatre in the country. Their productions (all Equity with occasional NY talent) can be hit or miss, but usually are worthwhile. Next year they are meant to have Blithe Spirit, Death of a Salesman, and On Your Feet. Though that could change depending on how their fall lineup pans out. The Arden Theatre in Old City is also fantastic.
In April, our world renowned orchestra will be performing South Pacific, plus the great Yannick Nezet Seguin will be conducting La Boheme in May.
It's a great city, with many arts options. Highly recommend coming down when you visit!
Edit: Fellow South Jersey resident Matt beat me to the punch on Philly!
DC is a great place to visit with tons to do (most museums are free, the monuments, etc) that isn't seeing a show and the Kennedy Center itself is just a gorgeous building. I love going up to the roof top area and just looking out over the Potomac as it is just a gorgeous view (especially at sunset).
Boston is also a really nice place to visit and see shows which I've done a few times. I've never done a lot of the tourist related things there and mostly just roam around, but it's a really beautiful area.
DC is also very spread out and it's easy to get lost there while walking. I've been many times but I didn't like how cold and stately and rambling it felt the first time — every time after that I've met up with a local friend or two and the experience has been a lot less stressful. I can also say I've never had a bad theatre experience there, and I've seen productions at Studio Theatre, Constellation Theatre, Ford's, and a few tours. So I'd say if you know anyone there, try to meet up with them! Or be sure to have a really good map (not just whatever you have on your smartphone).
Leading Actor Joined: 1/26/19
Thanks for your lovely tips! Here's to hoping a nice schedule whenever it's possible :)
If you're from outside the States and want to take in some history also, than DC, Boston and Philadelphia would be great trips for you to visit while also taking in shows (depending on what would be playing then).
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