"You might consider these:
- Hello Dolly
- The Band's Visit (has the most positive buzz if upcoming musicals; I believe it'll still be in previews when you're in NYC)
- Sweeney Todd - Off-Broadway, great reviews, cast interacts with some audience members plus Sondheim! "
I agree with this (truncated) list by Miles2Go2. I'd also add M. Butterfly and Torch Song Trilogy to the list. In order, this is what I'd recommend if In The Heights & Next To Normal are type of shows you've liked previously:
1. The Band's Visit. - this is an absolute must see per critics and reviewers. The show will still be in previews but it opens 9th November so I expect it will be mostly "locked in" and you'd likely see what critics would see.
2. Sweeney Todd - this is off broadway, but Carolee Carmello is really really good in one of the most fun characters Sondheim ever wrote. The score is rich and material dark and very compelling.
3. Hello, Dolly - this is nothing like In The Heights or Next To Normal but it's a gorgeous production. If you like light hearted warm comedy, this is going to be great night in theater for you.
4. Torch Song Trilogy - another off broadway play. But it has one of my favorite performers (Michael Urie) tackling one of my favorite texts by Harvey Fierstein.
5. M. Butterfly - revival of an old favorite with a really moving story, and amazing cast. I expect this to be a spectacle of crazy proportions.
4 and 5 have not opened yet so we don't know how they will be received, so take those recommendations with a grain of salt and do your research. I expect Torch Song to do well for sure (hence higher ranking) because it has a more reliable team behind it.
Have fun!
Caption: Every so often there was a rare moment of perfect balance when I soared above him.