Alec Rigdon

See it if you love Harry Potter, spectacular (and sometimes simple) stage effects, and a great ensemble doing wonders with a mediocre script.

Don't see it if you want the HP universe left alone after the original books. Or if you can't sit through more than a couple hours of a show.

Also Cursed Child isn't a perfect script, but the direction and cast does a splendid job fleshing it out. On top of this, there are a myriad of simple, yet well executed effects and design elements to make for a wonderful and full day at the theater.... Read more Read less

See it if you have been aching for a solid revival of a cult-classic musical. Staging and onstage talent is stellar.

Don't see it if you seek a complete re-imagining of this piece or can't stand (very) dark humor.

See it if you want a updated and dark retelling of an classic American musical. There are some fantastic performances and brilliant choreography.

Don't see it if you are a fan of the original staging or need everything to make sense. This reimagining doesn't hit the mark but does spark conversation.

See it if you love Sondheim or pared down, imaginative interpretations of musicals.

Don't see it if you expect a blockbuster musical. However entertaining Merrily is, there is a reason it's not produced often.

See it if you love Cher (duh). I'm not even her #1 fan and I still enjoyed it greatly. Plenty of top hits with some unexpected tunes thrown in, too.

Don't see it if you are looking for a super deep theatrical experience. There are plenty of emotional moments, but it's still coated in glitter.

See it if you enjoy a great comedic script performed expertly in a wonderful, new, intimate Broadway theatre.

Don't see it if you dislike LGBTQ+ storylines or shows over 2 hours.

See it if you like historical fiction with a dose of comedy and feminism.

Don't see it if you aren't a fan of period pieces, Shakespeare, or backstage drama.

See it if you enjoy legitimately good comedic moments and can keep up with a fairly fast-paced script.

Don't see it if you seek a deep message at the end of it all. While the characters flit around finding a relevant moral, the stakes never feel high.

See it if you appreciate intimate scenes and unique storytelling, especially for a musical.

Don't see it if you expect big Broadway voices or dancing.

See it if you love a drama that explores the ups and downs of a woman's life.

Don't see it if you expect a groundbreaking script.

See it if you enjoy intimate storytelling by a very competent actress.

Don't see it if you don't care for one-woman shoews or can't handle graphic storytelling.

See it if you enjoy seeing a true story regarding a powerful topic and inventive staging.

Don't see it if you avoid drama with political undertones.

See it if you are looking for a darker story and don't mind wading through insipid plot points and poor writing.

Don't see it if you are expecting a conventional, period comedy.

See it if you enjoy decent performances from competent actors in a predictable script.

Don't see it if you expect a good direction or design. Poor writing also plagues this production.

See it if you enjoy petty, white-problem dramas.

Don't see it if you expect anything that feels fresh or relevant.

Also while the scenery, costumes, lighting, and sound were all thoughtfully designed, the script itself seemed to lack any clear sense of tone. Long stretches felt like an amateur farce while others dove into over-emotional family drama territory. The cast mostly seemed competent, but couldn't keep the show afloat.... Read more Read less

See it if you enjoy cerebral stories and unique theatrical experiences.

Don't see it if you desire a simple storyline or are affected by loud/complicated sound effects.

See it if you seek a fresh take on a classic story. This is a truly great package in all regards; witty and charming all around.

Don't see it if you seek something edgy and dark.

See it if you love family dramas with a dash of humor or have lived in a New York apartment.

Don't see it if you expect gut-wrenching performances or thoughtless theatre.

See it if you enjoy the music of Sara Bareilles and strong ensemble pieces. It stays fairly true to the movie.

Don't see it if you dislike awkward on-the-nose contemporary choreography and uneven direction.

See it if you enjoy little known classic plays.

Don't see it if you can't stand Irish accents.

See it if you love great improvisation, interactive whodunnits, or laugh-out-loud comedy.

Don't see it if you hate audience interaction, puns, or topical humor.

See it if you love a tight, funny book.

Don't see it if you can't handle Shakespeare portrayed in a negative light.

See it if you are a fan of dark humor or Chita.

Don't see it if you expect a lot of action.

See it if you love fun onstage tricks and unique storytelling.

Don't see it if you want everyone in the story to live.

See it if you enjoy a highly conceptualized and choreographed show.

Don't see it if you dislike serious plots and loud noises.

See it if you like dark, satirical, musical adaptations of Shakespeare.

Don't see it if you don't like gore onstage or less-than-perfect book writing.

Also Scotland, PA is a fun show, with a disappointing score and book. The orchestrations could use a lot of help, but even then I found myself trying to remember more of the songs beyond "Clairvoyant." The performances are solid, but the pacing seemed awkward due to stilted staging. I would be interested in seeing any future iterations of this if the team continues tweaking the piece.... Read more Read less

See it if you love a hilarious interpretation of a great movie. The book is hilarious, the staging is non-stop, and it looks great, to boot.

Don't see it if you expect a scene-by-scene recreation of the movie. There are several liberties taken with the story, but they all work very well.

See it if you love Hnath's writing, Metcalf's acting, or thought-provoking, political drama.

Don't see it if you seek a light, bubbly show.

See it if you enjoy aggressive performance art.

Don't see it if you seek clear narratives or comfortable seats/leg room (practically none exists).

See it if you love good food, great theatre, and unique atmospheres.

Don't see it if you hate Shakespeare. But even then, it's a very refreshing adaptation of a rarely done classic.

See it if you enjoy spectacles, great dancing, and family friendly performances with wonderful designs in a great NYC landmark.

Don't see it if you want a stress-free experience. The theater is HUGE and security lines are atrocious.

See it if you're okay with a somewhat slow, newish play.

Don't see it if you expect big production budgets or a super clear story.

See it if you enjoy first-hand accounts of Broadway and Hollywood ages past as told with a heavy dose of brassy humor.

Don't see it if you need more to look at than a woman in a chair and a projection screen. Delivered as a memoir rather than a play.

See it if you love big mid-century musicals.

Don't see it if you want something with edge.

See it if you love the music of Jason Robert Brown or a semi-staged concert with great singers.

Don't see it if you prefer an overarching storyline.

See it if you love beautiful, intimate scenes in a complex spider web of a story.

Don't see it if you require a straight-forward, easily digestible play.

See it if you always wondered what happened after the door slams shut.

Don't see it if need to keep the original story the same.

See it if you love new interpretations on old classics, great lighting designs, or break-neck shows with surprising amounts of intimacy.

Don't see it if you have a hard time following multi-character plots or hate audience participation.

See it if you enjoy dark, but humorous stories along with great dancing and singing.

Don't see it if you don't like stories revolving around young people/teenagers.

Also I was pleasantly surprised with everything in this show. The script and music was heartfelt, funny, and accessible yet fresh. Acting, singing, and dancing were all sharp and well done. Designs and special effects were outstanding and full of surprises. Hands down the best show I've seen this year.... Read more Read less

See it if you enjoy mid-century period pieces, strong female storylines, and kitschy fun song and dance.

Don't see it if you seek edgy, dark elements. While the girl-power message is ever relevant, it not groundbreaking by any means.

Also I saw the understudy for Ms. Dacal and while there were a couple minor slips, it was a strong enjoyable performance. I should also not that, while not extravagant, the set is versatile and well designed. It added a lot to the experience.... Read more Read less

See it if if you want to be ripped apart by some amazing voices. The story is forever poignant and full of humanity.

Don't see it if you don't have a heart.

See it if you love classic movies and beautiful dancing. The projection design is also very well done.

Don't see it if you want a fast paced show with contemporary themes.

See it if bluegrass music and great ensemble performances are your jam.

Don't see it if romantic storylines and some over-used tropes don't excite you.

See it if you enjoy classic feeling stories through a modern filter.

Don't see it if you want memorable tunes.

See it if you love great humor with your drama or want to see where musical theater is heading.

Don't see it if you want a traditional book musical.

See it if you enjoy intimate character studies, you enjoy great scenic/lighting designs.

Don't see it if you are opposed to stage combat utilized to kill time, you don't like jarring air horns.

See it if you love a perfectly woven story and great acting.

Don't see it if you dislike blood or thoughtful theatre.

See it if you enjoy a fresh sound and story on Broadway.

Don't see it if you expect to year "Let It Go."

See it if you are interested in this chapter of American history told onstage.

Don't see it if you are seeking a flawless book or score.