Ellen 24

See it if You are looking for a pleasant experience in a mythical ( maybe) world.

Don't see it if You are looking for a show with a huge cast or a focus on contemporary political or social issues.

Also I wasn’t familiar with the story, so I read the book. That exercise provided the additional advantage to see what was included or excluded. I found the decisions fascinating.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to develop an awareness of what it is like to be mentally ill and have people react in ways that aren’t always appropriate or nice.

Don't see it if You are looking for light entertainment, or offended by rough language

Also This play left me leaving the theater thinking about what I had experienced. It really required time to digest. Having an ill family member, (whom I’m not able to see) it opened my eyes to what that person may be going through- if not now, then in the future as their condition deteriorates.

As an observant (but not Hasidic) Jew I was disturbed by the presentation of Hasidic Jews. Everything said was true, HOWEVER, not for every member of the Hasidic community. Also, the community is evolving- but you wouldn’t know it from this presentation. It wouldn’t have detracted, IMO, if a Hasidic character, even in a very minor role, disagreed with the horrific treatment given to Yossi by his family.

Being Hasidic doesn’t always mean a lack of human rights.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see how some immigrant families integrate into American Society-their concerns and hopes-without American politics also present

Don't see it if you are looking for a fluff show that provides mindless entertainment. ( these shows have their place, but this is not one of them)

See it if If you want a entertaining FUN evening, (even though it speaks of a serious concern) You want a plot that goes some very unexpected ways

Don't see it if You are homophobic and are incapable of disagreeing with homosexuality while simultaneously acknowledging that ALL people have rights.

Also This play has a very definite gay rights theme to it. However, the way it is handled, the actions of ALL the characters are not something you can anticipate or expect. Mature people should be able to enjoy a show, even if they disagree with part of the basic premise!

I feel this play is going to be big on Broadway and I also feel it may open some eyes to how "others" feel--if someone is game to allow themselves out of their comfort zone.... Read more Read less

See it if you enjoy musicals with a twist in staging and presentation. You enjoy Caribbean music and dance.You want an edgy staging.

Don't see it if You are not willing to go beyond traditional and enjoy a musical with a message. OR a musical where the stage is sand!

See it if you want to see actors, who displayed talent, dealing with a horrendous script. They, individually, playing multiple roles, deserve a "85"

Don't see it if you find non-stop, repetitive potty mouth unnecessary, you want something that begins to approach what a Birthright Group is.

Also As a Diaspora Jew,living part time in Israel, I know people who have been involved in Birthright. This includes participants, guides, security personnel and soldiers. I've heard all kinds of stories. I'd be a liar to say there are never occurrences as included in the play--BUT it is never the total focus of a trip.

This play presented a disorganized, stereotypical view of American millennials, Israeli guides, Israeli staff and Israeli soldiers. I understand based on the author's long essay, written in the playbill that he has issues. I also understand that the play attempted to show the thought process of participants as they went through the experience.

BUT, I don't think anyone should pay to go see them. I'm not into participating and supporting in the author's group therapy sessions. --

Almost forgot, there is a small amount of cigarette smoking on stage and the smell makes it into the audience. If you are super sensitive ( or an asthmatic --don't even think of going.)... Read more Read less

See it if you want a light comedy show that happens to include a bi-sexual character. Great acting, especially by Lucy Devito.

Don't see it if you want deep plots and something to reflect on

Also This was a cute play. Although slightly raunchy, unless you are very very conservative you won't be offended. Yes, the male character is bi--but you'd have to be super homophobic for this to be an issue. The second half ( its only one act) is better done than the first.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to spend a pleasant afternoon/evening being entertained by simple and enjoyable

Don't see it if you feel going to the theater there has to be a message. If you need to leave contemplating what you can take away from the show

Also This was an enjoyable play. Acting was good. Elizabeth Inghram became painful to listen to at the end--and I believe that was perfect. Her stage personality needed that quality. Joy Donze's facial reactions as she went on and on were a perfect mirror.... Read more Read less

See it if You can relate to difficulties with the expectations of a parent and your own achievements ( can't we all?)

Don't see it if you don't like one man shows, expect a big showy fancy set

Also The day I went I read the reviews and I was, to be honest, somewhat apprehensive about my choice to attend. I am pleased to say that the show was 65 minutes, NOT excruciating and I had no problems differentiating between the different characters represented by Ted Greenberg.

I guess they read some of the feedback and edited. AFTER all that is what a preview is about!

I should also say that I did NOT know who Ted Greenberg is. ( don't follow this stuff) and bought tix cause the topic seemed interesting. --it was

Biggest negative, the theater is freezing. Felt like you could easily hang meat!... Read more Read less

See it if you believe it is important to learn about the horrors of the Holocaust and want to see a show that does an EXCELLENT portrayal of this time

Don't see it if You are looking for a glossy show that leave you feeling good as you walk out. Can't overlook a handful of parts that moved slowly.

Also I thought this show was fantastic. The acting was superb. I viscerally hated the Nazis--that is how good they were. I dreaded that they would maybe take group bows ( they didn't) and wasn't sure I'd be able to applaud them.--even though I know you area applauded the actor NOT the character.

Terezin was, on paper, a "show camp" This show demonstrated the horror that existed there too. It showed mans inhumanity towards man. It is something that we should never forget. Forgetting history leads for it to be repeated!... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see a humorous accounting of the trials and tribulations of a couple when they realize they can't conceive naturally.

Don't see it if the subject matter is very close to your heart and painful. If you are not ready to see the subject approached with humor

Also Show has no scenery and I didn't miss it. Myra Thibault is a powerful actor. Seats are comfortable, not always a given when we are talking off Broadway.

note: I realize my descriptive adjectives at the beginning seem to contradict, but the show fits them all.... Read more Read less

See it if the good in people that came out of the horror of 9/11 means something. A small town and its 7,000 guests face an unimagined new reality.

Don't see it if you are unopen to anything positive happening ANYWHERE as a result of 9/11. OR your nerves are still raw from the 9/11 terrorism.

Also This bright, cheery and uplifting show is non stop music and interaction. Thankfully you almost (but never completely) can forget the reason for the people being stranded. You focus on the giving of some. AS a native New Yorker, whenever the play said the time, my mind went back to where I was at that time, how much did I know, how was I reacting. THAT part can be sad. I also felt that those who lived it, who for months smelled it and lost or knew those who lost family or friends related to the show very differently than the audience members who know 9/11 (though no fault of their own) only from the TV screen and/or news reports.... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoy learning the bio of James Cagney and seeing some really fantastic tap dancing

Don't see it if If you are looking for an modern style musical. This isn't!

Also My 79 might have been higher had I seen James Creighton. Unfortunately, the role of James Cagney, the day I went was performed by Freddie Kimmel, the understudy. He was very very good, but...... Read more Read less

See it if you want a laid back evening of good fun. If you remember the 50s you can add a plus since you will be walking down memory lane.

Don't see it if subtle commentary about the role of women isn't your thing. If you can't handle a play that appears to accept the social mores of the time.

See it if you want a marvelously acted play about interpersonal relationships

Don't see it if you are looking for something that is light-hearted, you cannot accept sexual innuendo ( small amount)

Also This play is such more than the story of a family during the Cuban Missile Crisis. It is the relationship between a woman, her husband and her brother ( who lives with them) The stress of the crisis force the characters to contend with issues that would have otherwise remained in the background. BTW as a 10 year old during the crisis I was not scared because I assume my parents protected me. However, I did begin to wonder what they were saying after my brother and I were safely tucked into our beds. Unfortunately I'll never know.... Read more Read less

See it if You want an old fashioned big time musical with a full band and large cast offering well choreographed numbers,songs and great set!

Don't see it if You need to see modern and edgy. This show IS Old Fashioned and that's what makes it great!

See it if you want to see a show that has a premise based on a simpler time. Good acting, good scene and a very positive experience

Don't see it if Everything you go to has to be relevant today

Also The problems of the characters are dated but sometimes its good to see where we were and evaluate if we are in a better or worse place today! Modern doesn't always equal better!... Read more Read less

See it if you love Ionesco, want an interesting 2nd Act enabling you to "feel' the rhinos taking over, want something that relates to modern issues

Don't see it if you cant sit through a very slow drawn out first act, want action throughout, dislike the premise of the play

See it if You are interested in Joyce. Like a musical that can be slow at times but still worth seeing. Enjoy seeing the story behind the book.

Don't see it if Sexual innuendo or poking fun at the Catholic Chuch upsets you

See it if you enjoy simple quality plays. You can see the expressions and nuances on the actor's faces due to intimacy of theater.

Don't see it if you need 21st century bells and whistles. Also, if you can't get past the slight dragging of the second play.

See it if Plain enjoyable funny musical

Don't see it if Everything you see has to have a social message

See it if You love dogs and your's isn't an animal but a person! You're "competing" with a dog for affection. You enjoy plays with no social message.

Don't see it if You are offended by curse words. ( there are a lot of them) You expect Mathew Broderick to deliver a more than monotone performance.

See it if You liked the Wizard of Oz and find the idea of a prequel interesting. You want to understand the character's motivation for Oz behavior.

Don't see it if You don't like shows that are lacking a great social message.

See it if You are looking for an adult themed show presented by a very unique cast. You forget that ½ the cast is hearing impaired as you watch.

Don't see it if You have kids under 14-15 with you, your are very conservative about the age a child learns about sex or you are a prude.

See it if You want a portrayal of the South in 1930. You want good acting and honest discussion.You aren’t afraid to acknowledge racism.

Don't see it if You are someone who deals with unpleasant aspects of the US past by tossing them and putting blinders on. You want a strictly linear plot.

See it if You enjoy full stage, old fashioned musicals. Great singing and loads of fun

Don't see it if Your ideal music is edgy and full of special effects

Also I had NOT seen the movie and was totally unaware of the story line. I am thrilled I decided to see this.... Read more Read less

See it if you don't think every show needs a deep message. You enjoy amazing puppetry. You want an afternoon/evening of just plain fun!

Don't see it if your shows must solve the worlds problems and be deep and political. You can't just sit back and enjoy something for the moment.

See it if you want to spend some time just having fun. Good singing, simple plot, some corny jokes. I consider this a feel good play.

Don't see it if unless you walk out in deep conversation,pondering possible hidden meanings and messages from the play, you are left feeling incomplete.

See it if you are accepting of a Marlowe/Shakespeare connection. You enjoy a show despite one poor act. You can follow multiple rolls per actor

Don't see it if you need your shows to be 100% perfect. Good acting is not enough for you. You aren't willing to think outside the box.

See it if you enjoy traditional musicals.This is a full stage, large scale,traditional show. I saw it with Donna Murphy and thought she was fantastic

Don't see it if you want some modern and edgy.

See it if you are a human who one day will age. You want an intellectual, yet funny discussion of some of the concerns we all face as the years go by

Don't see it if You need a fluffy light piece. You feel that somehow you won't age and won't face the problems and concerns the come naturally

Also This is an extremely well done play. Anyone who honestly looks in the mirror, be they a boomer or someone who one day will be a boomer ( and has close relatives who are there) should be able to relate to some of the concerns of these four ladies.

Those who are younger may think its fluff or made up. Let me, as a boomer, assure you it is real. I may feel and act 25, but the fears and worries are there. --no matter how much someone surpasses or denies them.... Read more Read less

See it if You want a show that explores relationships and how we impact each other, you get that despite outside differences we are the same.

Don't see it if If you feel a musical must be big, loud and overwhelming, also if you are unwilling to think a little when watching a show

Also This show is a play with music. BUT the music is very important to the plot and the way the characters interact. It really weaves the whole thing together. ( both the play and the characters)

I noticed the someone mentioned there is a 'foreign language" sometimes thrown in. Yes, there is a small amount of Hebrew in the play and a small amount of Arabic in the play. I understand Hebrew and I can assure you that you missed nothing by not 'understanding it' It was either all translated or easily inferred. I am trusting that the same is true of the Arabic ( which I do NOT understand)

Only thing NOT translated was the sign at the end ( and this is NOT a spoiler) It basically said, "Arab Cultural Center, Petah Tikva"... Read more Read less

See it if Interested in the financial world and some of the wheeling and dealing that went/goes on. You can enjoy a show that uses your intelligence

Don't see it if Wall Street is "boring" to you. You have no idea what buyout, poison pill, junk bonds,options, short sales etc. are or mean

Also This is an intelligent show. While I enjoyed the innovative staging there is little gross "actions" So, if you need lots of movement this isn't for you.

What amazed me the most was the complete nonchalance of those who seemed willing to push and break the law. The ability to feel that since they were making money they could basically do as they wanted and when they wanted. The lack of disrespect for fellow humans. It is a sad commentary, made sadder by the fact that I'm sure it is still going on, albeit more cautiously.
BTW I realize this show was "fiction" but it is based on real facts and a real incident.... Read more Read less

See it if You want pleasant and cute mindless entertainment. You appreciate the powerful voices of LuPone and Ebersole.

Don't see it if You are looking for a something meaningful that you will talk about afterwards.There are higher rated shows that you haven't seen yet.

See it if have some familiarity with theme of 1984. Like shows that really make you think. This is NOT light entertainment.

Don't see it if If you are looking for a family show. --DON'T BRING under 16-18. If you are squeamish about seeing results of torture, dislike strobe lights

Also Admittedly its been years since I read 1984 and I will shortly be rereading. I sat riveted, in the beginning, unsure what was happening. Slowly it became understandable. Acting is excellent, so is staging. While there is torture and "blood" I think, most can handle it. It is NOT there for shock, it fits totally into the story line.... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoy Chekov. You want to see a show where the acting stars, not a set or special effects. You enjoy small intimate theater.

Don't see it if Classic plays are not your thing. You need the special effects, fancy staging.

Also Theater is on the 4th floor of a walk up building. WARNING for those who don't do steps!... Read more Read less

See it if you are a fan of Harry Potter and have every detail about him, his friends and school memorized. Also if boarderline cute works for you.

Don't see it if You are unfamiliar with the Harry Potter books or are looking for something that is really funny.

Also I sat on the side in a small section of 4 rows--2 seats per row. In front of me was...a wall! This meant I got to see the whole show at an angle. The actors and actresses are frequently in the aisle---with their backs to where I sat and their standing presence blocking what was going on onstage. I felt like I wasn't part of the audience and didn't count. Maybe this poor seat contributed to my score!... Read more Read less

See it if you are down to earth enough to enjoy a sweet musical with great voices on a simple set. you enjoy basic sweet entertainment.

Don't see it if you want a show that will solve the world's problems, or offer great insight on the boy meets girl relationship.

Also This show is partially predictable. There are also a few scenes with a lot of sexual innuendo that are actually very funny. I sometimes enjoy shows that are entertainment for the moment. I don't always need to leave awed by the great message or profound thoughts presented.... Read more Read less

See it if you enjoy Carole King music and enjoy learning about the person behind the star. you want to know the motivation behind many songs

Don't see it if you dislike Carole King music. YOu want a modern hip edgy musical. The style matches the music

See it if you will enjoy Shakespeare with a twist.

Don't see it if your Shakespeare has to be 100% pure Bard.

Also Spoiler Alert re: the Violence

The violence is not in your face, and despite the picture no one ends up dripping with blood. If fear of violence is keeping you from seeing this play, rest assured it exists but in a "gentle fashion"--and you'll have to go to fully understand that comment!... Read more Read less

See it if you can enjoy a play where the characters wrestle with problems found in many families today. ( maybe even yours?)

Don't see it if you are incapable of watching a show with minimal physical action.If you don't want to engage your brain be mentally involved with the plot.

See it if you enjoy a light show about a heavy topic. Singing is good and show is fun. Loads of innuendo if you listen.

Don't see it if you want a deep show with deep meaning. You are offended by 4 letter words and simulated sex. Adultery is a turn off for you.

See it if You enjoy the paranormal or you enjoy a show where you have to use your brain to follow the dialog and understand what is happening.

Don't see it if You are looking for mindless entertainment.

See it if If you like musicals, history, great singing and an interesting twist. Appreciate that off Broadway isn't as massive as Broadway.

Don't see it if Need full hoopla of Broadway. Don't like child leads (she has an amazing voice) Won't be happy sitting on folding chairs. (biggest minus)

See it if Enjoy mellow, old time shows with banjos, jazz, country and folk. If you want a really nice evening with good music, singing and staging!

Don't see it if You will only enjoy a show if it is hip and edgy.

See it if You like shows that are different and must see al the top shows.

Don't see it if you get upset at a show that insults a religion. Feel that ALL "top" shows are going to be great. This one is good but I've seen better!

See it if You love ballet and slow moving shows that are well staged.

Don't see it if You want to see a modern edgy show.

See it if New subject matter. Interment of Japanese was a blot on US. This show shares a dark period in American history in a refreshing fashion.

Don't see it if You think that the interment of the Japanese after Pearl Harbor was okay and anything that shows sympathy is incorrect.

See it if You enjoy musicals with a slightly irreverent touch. You want to leave humming the music, buying the CD and playing it over and over again.

Don't see it if you can't just sit back, kick off your shoes ( figuratively) and enjoy a bit of nonsense.