Dave 8117

See it if you enjoy jukebox musicals. This has great 80s and 90s music. The plot is better than most, but it's a low bar to meet!

Don't see it if you don't like jukebox musicals, dislike 80s and 90s music or really want a moving plot.

Also I shouldn't admit it, but I really like the jukebox musicals, and this is one of the better ones. Not sure if I would want to pay Broadway prices for it, but for off-Broadway, it's great!... Read more Read less

See it if you're interested in a 2 1/2 hour character and relationship study. It has good parts, but...

Don't see it if you want a crisp, well-edited play.

Also First of all, great set. The basic idea of the play is good, but there were too many times when I felt I was watching actors reciting lines, not characters speaking to one another. I hate that I'm saying this, but it really just has too many words.... Read more Read less

See it if if you like musicals or plays about the challenges of making and keeping relationships.

Don't see it if you don't like musicals.

Also This is a funny, touching musical about four "friends" and their various relationships. The acting is good. The singing is fairly good, but everyone belts out their songs like they're projecting to a huge theater. The songs themselves are okay. I was distracted by some of the odd/forced rhyming.... Read more Read less

See it if you want a thoughtful, well-done play about what drives us and the demons we live with.

Don't see it if you want a light show. Also if you don't like a lot of yelling. The characters are rather angry, which can be tough at times.

Also The writing and acting are so good that I was really pulled into this play. The only downside is that it's rather tragic, so I left feeling drained. But, it was very much worth it.... Read more Read less

See it if you're intrigued by a cabaret-style presentation on death and dying which is rather upbeat.

Don't see it if you don't want to see a show about death or if you will be frustrated by seeing "half a show".

Also I saw the show with the understudy, who was excellent. This is quite original with great acting, singing, music and interesting staging. It's basically personal experiences related to death and dying, with songs added for effect. It was all great. Then, after about 40 minutes, the cast/band goes into a very drawn-out rendition of the final song (including an audience sing along!) - and then it was over. I had the feeling of, "That's all I have to say, so now you can leave!"... Read more Read less

See it if you're interested in a great portrayal of family dynamics as they address a very serious and traumatic situation.

Don't see it if you want something upbeat. This isn't light entertainment.

Also While the play deals with a serious and upsetting topic, it is well written, acted and staged. The first act even has some very light moments which draw you more into the characters. I really enjoyed how they broke the fourth wall often. The second act takes a turn, but again, it is well done. I'm not so sure what I think of the final monologue, but I'll leave that up to you...... Read more Read less

See it if you like shows with audience participation, single actor plays and morality stories.

Don't see it if you don’t like single actor shows or morality plays.

See it if you would like to see a very funny stand-up comedian and learn a bit about Judaism at the same time.

Don't see it if you don’t like comedians or would be uneasy with religion-based humor

See it if three very well written and acted plays. The two new plays show how it is not so easy to dismiss the past as being "in the past".

Don't see it if you don't like thought-provoking or plays addressing prejudices.

See it if you want a well written and acted play, updated so it isn't sexist. The feminist emphasis was well done.

Don't see it if If you only want Dracula performed as written. The set was very creative, but minimal, which some people might not like.

See it if You want to see it rain on stage - but I don’t think it’s worth it for that. You’re not getting that time back.

Don't see it if You don’t want to waste your time or money.

Also I can find something good about pretty much any show, but this was AWFUL! The story is completely dated and should be allowed to pass into musical heaven. They tried to “make it contemporary”, but ended up with a group of 20-somethings attempting to be teenagers who were part glee club, part tough guys - all the while delivering ridiculous songs and dialog. The use of video was stupid and distracting. I came to see a stage performance, not watch a movie. And why did half of it take place in the rain? Don’t waste your time with this.... Read more Read less

See it if You are a fan of Alanis Morissette or at least like her big hits. Or if you’re ready for a show that addresses several of today’s issues.

Don't see it if You don’t care for her music or want something light. It does end on a hopeful note, but it is a tough ride.

Also This was a lot darker than I was expecting. Music and singing were great, but they built it around a story of rape, opioid abuse and racial issues. There are some light moments along the way and it ends on an upbeat note, but be ready. It is worth it.... Read more Read less

See it if you're interested in a funny but thought-provoking study of relationships.

Don't see it if you are offended by (male) nudity or crude language,

Also This show definitely works at being a bit shocking, which may put off some people. I enjoyed the body of it, but the ending felt somewhat abrupt. The acting was very good.... Read more Read less

See it if you want a fun evening at a show. This is an impressive show for a 0ff-Broadway - original music, great cast and terrific acting.

Don't see it if you don't like musicals or if you only like serious plays.

See it if you'd like a creative, multi-media event that walks you through the baby boom years.

Don't see it if you don't like one man shows or want a standard play.

Also I didn't appreciate this show until I understand what it was. Rick Miller is a Canadian who is a talented impersonator/voice actor/singer. He combines those skills with very creative staging to reflect on the mood and events of 1945 - 1969, as witnessed through the eyes of people close to him. It's these personal points of view that make it more interesting, but I was slow it pick up on that.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a "Cliff Notes" version of several classic Christmas stories.

Don't see it if you're expecting a lampooning of the stories or anything close to a "madcap tour".

Also I'm glad most other reviewers like this, but it didn't work for me. I came in expecting to see parodies of some classic Christmas stories, and all I got were quick summaries of the stories. No parodies or added humor. The acting was fine, but not as nearly creative as I had hoped.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like to see a fairy tale with great staging and singing - and in Yiddish!

Don't see it if you don't like reading super titles or want a deep drama.

Also It's a little silly and contrived, but how many chances do you get to see classic Yiddish folk lore? The theater and production are excellent.... Read more Read less

See it if you're a fan of the movie and willing to have someone poke fun at it. Like the movie, this keeps moving from scene to scene. Very funny.

Don't see it if you haven't seen the movie or don't like silly parodies. This has more singing than dialog.

Also I love the movie and I thought this show was great. Some bits aren't quite as funny as the rest, but this show is 90 minutes of non-stop humor.... Read more Read less

See it if you like thought-provoking and challenging dramas. Or if you're just a fan of Pryce. Great acting.

Don't see it if you want something light and cheery.

Also I'm still thinking about what I saw. This play takes you right into a tortured mind. It's hard to follow at times, but that's the whole idea.... Read more Read less

See it if you like mentalists. Brown has mastered his craft, but he also has a great stage presence and adds elements to keep if funny,

Don't see it if you don't like mentalist or magic acts on Broadway.

Also Admittedly, I like mentalist and magicians. This show has a lot of the usual acts, but Derren Brown still kept me very entertained by adding twists, humor and new elements.... Read more Read less

See it if This is a classic show with great music and a timeless story - made even more "real" by presenting it in Yiddish.

Don't see it if you don't like reading super-titles or don't speak Yiddish (even German will do).

Also In case you're concerned that presenting "Fiddler" in Yiddish is just a gimmick - it's not. This does change (and in my opinion, improve) the musical. The super-titles are well done and easy to read. The staging is minimalist, but I liked that.... Read more Read less

See it if Terrific variety show format with amazing singing and stories. Must see if you’re a fan of Kristin Chenoweth.

Don't see it if You don’t like Kristin or want light entertainment.

Also This is actually a review for Kristin’s November 2019 show - “For the Girls”. I didn’t know I was a fan until I saw this show. Great singing, of course, but also funny and touching as Kristin introduces old friends and new talented women.... Read more Read less

See it if This is a great NYC Christmas tradition - singing, 3-D effects and the Rockettes! Definitely worth fitting into your schedule.

Don't see it if You don’t like big, variety show-like extravaganzas.

See it if you know and like Edgar Oliver. You're intrigued by a very long relationship between two people who seem to want to be alone.

Don't see it if you don't like one-person shows or want something lighter.

Also This show was hard to review. Edgar has a very distinct style as he tells his story, which at times I found distracting. I'm still not sure if I'm I find the story touching or disturbing - I guess both. Still, I'm glad I saw it. It's a very honest telling of a true story, and I thank Edgar for sharing it with us.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a well acted portrayal of a very possible set of events. Great study of how we react to fear, hate and injustice.

Don't see it if you want a light play. This explores our motivations for some very raw emotions and reactions to events that are happening all around us.

Also Overall the play is very good. It held my attention, but there are some transitions in the characters that are more extreme than I was willing to accept. Still, a very intriguing play that is worth the emotional effort it takes to watch and think about it.... Read more Read less

See it if very interesting historical play about a story that is well worth hearing. The acting was mixed, but overall it was good.

Don't see it if you aren't interested in - or upset by - stories concerning Nazis and persecution of Jews.

Also The play starts off a bit stilted, but then settles into a good rhythm. The woman playing the fencer was very strong.... Read more Read less

See it if you've seen a lot of shows - and have an evening open to see a show with some funny bits. The "In Memoriam" piece was great.

Don't see it if you expect a consistently funny show. There are moments, but overall it was just okay.

Also I was a big fan of Forbidden Broadway many years ago, so I was excited when it came back. Unfortunately, this was a bit disappointing. The parodies didn't have the bite I remember. Also, I found the young man in the cast distracting. He is very talented, for sure, but it was especially awkward when he came out as Tootsie. I also don't care for the Triad with its drink min., but better there than nowhere.... Read more Read less

See it if you want a fun musical that is well done on all fronts.

Don't see it if you didn't like the movie or you don't like musicals or dark comedies. This show doesn't have a deep meaning or message.

Also It's a quirky musical, for sure, but this production is really worth seeing. Strong acting, singing and sets (including the "plant"). Having it off-B'way means that every seat is very close to the action.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a funny and touching personal story of a man's relationship with alcohol - and his eventual determination to be sober.

Don't see it if there isn't much downside to this play. It gets a little preachy at the very end, but otherwise it's solid on all fronts.

See it if you are ready for an open and honest recounting of the response a woman and her family have to her being raped.

Don't see it if you're not comfortable with discussions of rape or the sharing of raw feelings. It's draining to watch, but very worthwhile.

Also It doesn't get any more real than this - Tawni O'Dell wrote a very personal and open play about her family's experience when her daughter is raped and then does an equally great job sharing it with us. It's raw and intense, but very much worth seeing. The staging is creative and the pace keeps moving. Unlike some reviews, I did not find it slow at all.... Read more Read less

See it if You’ve had a baby - or are planning to have one.

Don't see it if You have trouble with accents. You don’t shows that are a series of short scenes.

Also Some of the “scenes” are better than others, but this is still an entertaining show. As a man, I can’t identify with all of it. But as a dad, much of the show spoke to me. Having a kid is great, but this show reminds us that there are tough moments and challenges too.... Read more Read less

See it if This is a well-written, well-acted near monologue (there’s a small “off screen” part) which is both funny and insightful.

Don't see it if You don’t like one-ish man shows or are looking for something light.

See it if You like one woman shows and/or shows about relationships and growth.

Don't see it if You prefer a big production.

See it if you'd like to see a show with solid acting by all and a nice set that is definitely entertaining.

Don't see it if you're expecting a hilarious show.

Also From the earlier reviews, I was expecting an amateur attempt at hilarity which falls short and tries for cheap laughs. I don't know if they did some rewriting, but I was pleasantly surprised. It's light, but I didn't sense they were trying to force it to be funny or silly. To me it was more about the relationships between the characters - and how they evolved. It kept my interest the whole time.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like an entertaining combination of reminiscing, story telling and a little stand-up comedy. Not hilarious, but funny and touching.

Don't see it if you don't like one person shows or stand-up.

See it if an amazing, funny and moving performance. One person shows are challenging, but Alice Ripley keeps you interested the entire time.

Don't see it if you don't like one person shows or topics like gender issues, civil rights or family problems.

Also This play covers a lot of serious issues, but it also has plenty of genuinely funny moments. If you want to see an amazing one person show, then see "Pink Unicorn".... Read more Read less

See it if you're ready for an intense play about intolerance, relationships and family bonds. The acting was fantastic.

Don't see it if you're uncomfortable with plays which address homosexuality, discrimination and/or intolerance.

See it if you love Meatloaf and especially the Bat Out of Hell album. That is all in here, with strong singing and a great band.

Don't see it if you've had enough post-apocalyptic shows with 80s shoulder pads and shiny clothes OR if you're distracted by bad choreography.

Also Parts of the show were absolutely great, especially the music. But the choreography was so bad it made me look away - think Mad Max meets Dance Moms. It was also a bit long, with some unnecessary songs most of us didn't recognize.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a high energy musical with an amazing set. Great job incorporating dozens of hit songs. Not much of a story but who cares?

Don't see it if you don't like musicals or want a strong story. If you didn't like "Glee", you probably want to stay away - there are plenty of mash-ups.

Also Don't read too much into my "Glee" reference. There are some similarities - brief dialog which sets up the cast to break into a popular song and some mash-ups too. But, this is definitely a Broadway show - great singing, over-the-top sets and even enough story to keep tie it all together.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a first-hand account of life in prison. Great acting to create a variety of characters. Funny and disturbing at the same time.

Don't see it if you're easily offended. This is a very frank and raw description/re-enactment of the people and situations he encountered.

See it if you're ready for a great, but intense show. Excellent writing/acting which shine light on a serious issue and really hold your attention.

Don't see it if you're uncomfortable with tough issues like eating disorders and the family situations which create them.

See it if you'd like a funny, creative musical with strong lead performances. The story and music aren't consistently tight, but it's entertaining.

Don't see it if you don't like musicals or you're looking for a thought-provoking experience. This is fun, but silly.

See it if you'd like a show that's really funny because it's all true. It's a great concept that is well executed.

Don't see it if you don't like improv or audience participation. It's woven into the story well, but some people just don't care for it.

See it if you want to see "Uncle Vanya" but interpreted in a much more enjoyable version. Funny but still thought-provoking as Chekhov would want.

Don't see it if you don't like plays that break the 4th wall. Or if you love Chekhov and don't want his plays messed with.

Also I saw a classical presentation of "Uncle Vanya" and I did not care for it at all. I could tell this was the same play at its core, but I thoroughly enjoyed "Life Sucks"!... Read more Read less

See it if you like musicals about high school angst.

Don't see it if you're expecting a strong, Broadway-level experience.

Also My expectations were fairly high for "Be More Chill", and it didn't live up to them. This is a very good off-Broadway show, but the music and story aren't solid enough for Broadway.... Read more Read less

See it if you'd like a creative exploration of relationships and how we judge vs. support people we care about. Supporting cast is excellent.

Don't see it if you aren't comfortable with references to pornography.

See it if you 'd like some strong performances, creative set design and changes, and some very funny sections.

Don't see it if you don't like old-fashioned musicals. It was first performed in the 196s and takes place in the 1930s.

Also This musical has quite a history, which makes it worthwhile seeing. The first half was good, the second half was even better.... Read more Read less

See it if you liked the movie (although it isn't the same story) or want to see a more "over the top" musical. Very good acting and singing.

Don't see it if you don't like silly musicals.There are a couple touching moments, but that isn't what defines this show.

See it if like a touching story with fantastic acting and singing.

Don't see it if you only like comedies or lighter musicals.

Also Believe it or not, I was able (on purpose) to see Evan Hansen without knowing the music or even the story, so I won't give anything away. I'll just say that I loved it and I'm very glad I saw it. This show should be on everyone's list to see.... Read more Read less

See it if you will see anything with Nathan Lane.

Don't see it if you value your time.

Also I really don’t understand how this made it to Broadway. Most of the dialog is shouted. The main jokes involve farting and penises. There’s an attempt to share a message, but at that point I just didn’t care.... Read more Read less