Ile F.

See it if You want to see a deep, emotional and well performed play. I had not read the book and was moved by the story

Don't see it if You want a comedy, or a light show. This one is sad and deep

See it if You want to enjoy a classic, well done musical with amazing music and choreography

Don't see it if You want a lavish very high production set. More below

Also I think my expectations were set a bit high from watching the movie first. I am obsessed with the music and the movie is one of my favorites, so I wasnt familiar with the stage version. It is quite low key to what I pictured in my head but nonetheless was amazing to hear the music performed live and to witness the choreography. Incredible talent on stage.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see Billy Crystal live. He is the whole show, he is a great performer and it was wonderful to see him live. It's a cute show.

Don't see it if You are expecting a high belting musical. Shoshana is an amazing singer, but the music is not the highlight of this show

See it if You enjoy classic Broadway, want to see a comedy. More below

Don't see it if You expect amazing singing, they performers are talented but this show is hard to do, so think about your expectations

Also I think this show got a lot of unnecessary hate. I think it is well done and it is entertaining and the cast (while perhaps not amazing for the role) do have something to offer and they are talented. Beanie's performance as a comedic actress is well done, she just can't quite reach a few notes but nonetheless she is a good performer. I had a good time and enjoyed it.... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoy comedies with political themes, need to laugh to not cry in the current state the country is in. Like women empowerment themes

Don't see it if You get offended with vulgarity or sexual themes. Don't want to watch a show about women power/ satire of the white house

See it if You are a MJ fan. It is an absolute must if you like his music. Could not stop bopping my head

Don't see it if You don't like MJ, jukebox musicals in general, prefer a story to big musical numbers and productions.

Also I am a huge MJ fan so my review is clearly biased, but I loved it. I am usually not a fan of jukebox musicals, but being that MJ was one of history's biggest entertainers it was pretty difficult to get this one wrong. The staging, lighting and choreography was incredible, and I think the way they told his story was also very touching. Yes, it is a very tourist-y type of show but entertaining regardless with incredible talent... Read more Read less

See it if You are familiar with Mamet's work and like it. Want to see spectacular performances from the actors

Don't see it if You don't care much for dated plays about grifting and greed. Long dialogues, I appreciated the performances but overall felt a little meh

See it if You want to be in presence of amazing talent. Everyone in the cast is incredible.

Don't see it if You need a big production and scenery, you don't enjoy a classic Broadway score or don't like fairy tales.

See it if You like non traditional shows, with focus on dance, poetry and topics of race.

Don't see it if You are seeking a linear show, or dislike modern/contemporary type of dance. If you want to avoid topics like DV, racial issues, suicide

See it if You like shows w/bases in history, enjoy big dance numbers, like classic Broadway-type shows. The dance numbers are beautifully choreographd

Don't see it if You don't like musicals, hate irish dancing or stories that focus on war/slavery

Also I went into this show completely blind and I ended up really really liking it! While the singing is amazing, the score is not the greatest, maybe has one or 2 songs that are highlights, but the dancing I could watch for hours! Very impressed with that talent and how it was used to complement the story.
I should add it was also the first time I've seen a standing ovation after a song, what an amazingly beautiful and powerful voice!... Read more Read less

See it if Must See for HP fans, Must see for Theater fans who appreciate incredible sets. The staging and effects are unlike anything Ive seen

Don't see it if You hate HP, fantasy stories, big productions or being surrounded by tourists or children. Don't see it if you can't sit for 3+ hours.

Also The reviews regarding staging and effects do not exaggerate, it was an amazing experience. The story is engaging and I think it does the sequel justice. If you are not familiar with the story, the Showbill offers a nice little summary and even a glossary of the terms you need to know. You may be a bit confused but the performances and production are very much worth seeing.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see a great group of performers in a play that touches on prejudice, social construct, racism and homophobia

Don't see it if You are uncomfortable with male nudity, don't like long plays, can't go without your phone while in the theater (Yondr pouch required)

See it if You want to see a heartwarming, feel good show that displays there is still good people in the darkest moments

Don't see it if You want something very deep, it's a cute show but focuses on a few characters. If 9/11 is a topic that triggers you, or you want a big show

See it if You like historical figures to add a little pop/witty/modern humor to the re-telling of their story. You want a fun and entertaining show

Don't see it if You want a typical musical, this is more so a concert. You dont like humor in your herstory

See it if You want a fun, entertaining, flashy show with some Disney magic. You can't not smile while watching

Don't see it if You hate Disney, the movie, hate fun musicals, want something deep and meaningful. This show is for fun

See it if You want an original musical. You enjoy a re telling of a Greek Myth, enjoy new orleans jazzy type of music.

Don't see it if You don't like musicals or sung-through shows.

Also What an incredible musical!! I hear about the hype and it lived up to my expectations, the singing, the staging, the costumes were enchanting. I have listened to the cast recording non stop ever since I left the theater... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoy improv, freestyle rap and comedy. You want to see a different type of Broadway show

Don't see it if You want a traditional type of show, dislike rap or want a plot with set songs and set cast

Also I wasn't sure what to expect but I was blown away by it. I absolutely loved it, it was funny, clever and fascinating to see the performers come up with these lyrics on the spot. I was lucky enough to see it when Lin Manuel Miranda was performing, so I may be biased; but I would have loved to catch it a second time... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see incredibly talented actors on stage, want a heartwarming but tough story.

Don't see it if You don't enjoy plays or topics like Prison Reentry. If you dont like open ended endings. If you need an intermission at a 100 min show

Also I work in Prison Reentry, so it was a particularly heartwarming show for me. I thought it was well executed and realistic, enough humor to make it enjoyable but still sending a message. The actors performances were amazing! worth going just to see them on stage.... Read more Read less

See it if You liked the movie. It honors it well, acting is great and it's a good time all around

Don't see it if You want memorable music performances. It's a fun show, but none of the songs really stood out to me.

See it if You love Christmas, want to see the rockettes (they're iconic and incredible!) , enjoy shows with dancing and big productions

Don't see it if If you want a plot or if You don't like touristy things or shows for children. A lot of kids and ppl trying to take videos.

See it if You enjoy soul/ blues/ jazz music and want to see amazing voice performances, are interested in shows discussing race

Don't see it if You want a happy show , are uncomfortable with the topic of race and social disparities. It's also sometimes a bit hard to follow

See it if You want to see a show that deserved to be seen when it was written. Great acting, it may sound cliche but it is truly still relevant

Don't see it if You don't want to see a play that discusses the topics of race, privilege and racism

See it if You want to support advocacy organizations. More in comments

Don't see it if You want a feel good show, a better structured or profound show. More in comments

Also I work directly with the incarcerated population. I brought 10 coworkers with me to see this show and were very disappointed. I am so glad they provide you with the opportunity to support different advocacy organizations through the program, but I feel they missed an opportunity to give a voice to a huge issue in our society and country today. The play was missing a lot of elements, it felt very disorganized and some aspects were just very inaccurate in the portrayal of life behind bars. It seems the play only addresses important issues on the surface without leaving a message for the audience. It needs a lot of work in my opinion... Read more Read less

See it if You want an invite into a real life FBI arrest, are interested in Reality Winner's story. Like thought provoking plays

Don't see it if You prefer a musical, a comedy or big productions

Also I wasn't sure what to expect but I loved it. The fact that it is word for word the FBI transcript was fascinating to me and the actors were great in putting it on stage. If you are not familiar at all with the situation I would recommend a quick Wikipedia read before the show.... Read more Read less

See it if You like family comedies, are looking to relax and have a good time. Want to support black playwrights and stories

Don't see it if You are looking for a lot of substance, don't like clichés or topics related to religion, sexual orientation or race.

See it if You are a fan of Lili Taylor and long monologues, like non-linear dialogue or non traditional writing.

Don't see it if You want a show you can follow, prefer plays with a story line. This one was tough to get through, it lost me a few times through it.

See it if You want to see one of the best Musicals Broadway has to offer. The design, costumes and choreography blew me away!

Don't see it if You want something simple, or are expecting a lot of changes from the Disney Movie.

Also I always heard this was a people's favorite, and it lived up to the hype! I saw it on re-opening day after the Pandemic so maybe I am a little biased- nevertheless it is an amazing show and a work of art!... Read more Read less

See it if You love Tina Turner, want to see an inspiring story. The performers are worth it all on their own, it's a sad story but you leave smiling

Don't see it if Dislike jukebox musicals, Tina Turner or the topics of racism, drugs and domestic violence.

See it if You want to see the all star cast, enjoy family dramedy type of plays. It's funny and sweet

Don't see it if You don't want a family story, are looking for something completely different or prefer a musical

See it if You want to see the novel put on stage, you want to see a meaningful and wonderful performance by great actors

Don't see it if Dislike plays, want a happy show with happy endings or want to avoid topics such as racism, violence or sexual assault

See it if You want an entertaining, amazing spectacular show. If you liked the movie, this is 1000 times more enchanting!

Don't see it if You need original music, dislike having pop song mash ups on Broadway. Want an original plot

Also I loved this show! smiling the whole time and tapping my foot as well. The sets, costumes and choreography blows you away!
While i like a few jukebox musicals, i dont love them.. but this one did it right! Amazing! (of course having seen the movie i knew what i was expecting)
A tip- if you havent listened to the soundtrack before watching the show, dont. It was nice to hear the songs they put together while watching it live, i could tell the audience enjoyed that too.... Read more Read less

See it if You like Vivaldi's 'the four seasons' and would like to see them interpreted beautifully in dance. You enjoy contemporary/ballet dance

Don't see it if You want a linear plot type of play, this is a dance performance with a message.

Also I really enjoyed this performance, it was absolutely beautiful!
But i have to say, even though it was minimal and I understand her role, I don't think the reporter was necessary. I feel like she came off as goofy and just took away from the show altogether. Nevertheless, I look forward to seeing more performances by this company! I prefer ballet to contemporary, but this mix was fantastic!... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see a wonderful and enchanting re-telling of this classic. It warms your heart from the moment you sit down.

Don't see it if You hate Christmas or old-timey classic tales.

Also If you love all Christmas themed traditions, you CANNOT miss this show!!! It hurts my heart that my parents live too far for me to take them :(... Read more Read less

See it if You like long plays about struggling middle aged characters

Don't see it if You want happy endings, are uncomfortable with full frontal nudity.

Also Im not sure how to put into words how i feel about this show... It went too slow and too fast at the same time. I felt like for a nearly 3 hour show nothing really happened. The characters had some type of development from one moment to another in a way that didnt make sense to me, but maybe it's just not my type of play.
I see a lot of positive reviews here, but its worth noting there was no standing ovation on the night i went to see it, which i find very rare these days.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see a modernized version of a classic.. You like R & H, you want to witness talented singers perform

Don't see it if You like classic musicals to keep their original charm. I understand the modern take they wanted to achieve, but it didnt quite do it for me

See it if You want to see a great performance by a talented set of actors. You enjoy deep, heartbreaking stories. Kept me interested throughout it!

Don't see it if You want to see a comedy, a musical or a big elaborate set. The staging is minimal but brilliantly well used!

See it if You like 80's rock and want to feel nostalgic when listening to those songs, you like silly shows and want to have fun.

Don't see it if You dont know/ don't like any of the 80's rock songs. The whole appeal of the show is the songs, because the plot is pretty meh, very cliche

See it if You are familiar with the books/movies, you like YA stories, you want to get your kids into musicals

Don't see it if You want an adult-aimed show, You want a big production (this is more like a High school production with a very big budget)

Also I honestly went in not being familiar at all with the books and did not know what to expect... when i saw it was written by the same people as Be More Chill i was worried (that show was torture for me) however, despite it being similar to BMC, i actually enjoyed this one. It's got a better story and not as cliched or dumb. The songs arent really memorable but I had a good time, its a cute show. I do have to say, i would not pay full price for it (I got a comp ticket) it does not deliver Broadway-price quality.
Gotta give it up for the actors, I think its pretty amazing what they accomplished with such a small cast.
Bring your kids, the ones around me seemed pretty excited.... Read more Read less

See it if You like fun, well produced musicals. You liked the movie. You want to laugh and have fun at the theater. It's funny, silly and entertaining

Don't see it if Laughing at death makes you uncomfortable, dislike the Beetlejuice character or hate silly jokes/adult humor

Also The staging and production in this show is amazing! I absolutely loved the set and the effects, definitely Broadway-worthy in my opinion and well worth the trip to see it just because of that.
While it doesnt stick to the same plot of the movie, i definitely think movie fans will enjoy it, it has the characters you love and that fun/weird quality to it. That being said, you will still enjoy it and understand it if you have never seen the movie.
Alex Brightman's performance was wonderful... Read more Read less

See it if You want a silly, fun night at the theater. You like slapstick and physical comedy

Don't see it if You want a clever, thought provoking comedy or hate slapstick. Get annoyed at audience laughter/4th wall breaks (it happens sometimes)

Also Im not a huge fan of slapstick but I had a good time! Yes its silly and ridiculous at times but you will still laugh. I have to say the whole show is incredibly witty and clever, the staging and actor's performances are so well timed and not always appreciated as they should! Definitely a unique show!
The audience can get a little loud (at least the performance i was at), which is good for the show i guess but if that annoys you be wary of it...... Read more Read less

See it if You want a reenactment of the last years of Johnson's presidency by incredibly talented actors. You want to learn about this time period

Don't see it if You cant stay focused/seated for long periods of time (3hs), you dont like political plays, have no interest in the late 60's

Also I have to admit i was not initially interested in the show, and knew just the basics about this period of time. That being said I am glad i saw it, i found it interesting and even educational. The actors are amazing, and they kept my interest throughout it. I enjoyed it!... Read more Read less

See it if You enjoyed 'Nanette' and like quirky humor. You want a different stand up show that tackles current issues (i.e. patriarchy)

Don't see it if You hated Nanette, want a stand up show that is all jokes and no substance. Get uncomfortable when talking about sexuality, anti-vax, autism

Also I absolutely love Hannah Gadsby, ever since Nanette i was interested in her style and humor. She does not disappoint in this show, she is funny, educational, humble and unapologetic. As she says so herself, this show has less 'trauma' than Nanette, but still heartwarming.... Read more Read less

See it if You have never seen the Office

Don't see it if You want to see a funny parody of an amazing show that deserved better. More thoughts below..

Also I saw the Friends Musical Parody and absolutely loved it, so i was very excited to hear the creators were writing one for The Office.
I was highly disappointed, it gave me the impression that the writers were big fans of Friends and just watched the Office once then decided to milk the parody. I dont think the musical show captured the essence of the characters, i think it missed important things that make The Office such an amazing TV series. I didnt laugh and thought for the most part it was kind of stupid.
Kudos to the actors that played Dwight and Jim, they nailed it. Other than that the performances were ok.
Also as a side note... the show i attended had the swing actress for Angela, they have a wig for every single character but they couldnt get a blonde wig for her? The actress had pitch black hair. It was just an added thing that bothered me.... Read more Read less

See it if You are interested in the topic, want to see a powerful performance on a very sad and relevant issue

Don't see it if You want a happy show, violence against women triggers you or you don't want to hear any Spanish

Also I thought it was a great performance. Reading other reviews i can see why some may have been confused at times. I knew about the topic previously and I do speak Spanish, so I dont know how much that affects my appreciation for the show.
It's a tough topic, and i usually dislike solo shows but i really liked how this one moved along.... Read more Read less

See it if you want a musical about teen angst and high school. Though i would recommend you see Mean girls or DEH instead

Don't see it if You want a quality musical, expect Broadway quality or dont want to see a played-out cliche

Also I really dont know what the hype is all about with this show. It certainly had a lot of fans in the audience and i could see the stage door filled up real quick. I love musical theater and enjoy silly, dumb stories but this one was disappointing.
Overall, i would describe it as "meh"... the story was ok, the music wasnt memorable, no stand out set or choreography. The characters are the most basic cliches- the mean popular girl, the jock, the geek and the weird theater girl... it seemed very played out and almost boring. I wanted to see what the hype was all about and i got a very cheap ticket, i am very glad i didnt pay full price.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to see the actors. Yes, they are amazing

Don't see it if You dont like long plays with a lot of dialogue or are looking for an uplifting story (i get it's a 'love story' but its frustrating at time

Also ... yes, it reflects a very real aspect about relationships but i found it a bit difficult to empathize with the Johnny character. Reading other reviews i can see some people see him more as annoying and creepy rather than a hopeless romantic.. I also feel like it's a bit too long, I got a bit restless by the end (there was also an incident at the theater close to the end of the 1st act, which caused for a delay of almost 30 min, so i may have felt different had that not happened- which of course is not the theater or the performer's fault!)... Read more Read less

See it if You like the company xiv productions. Want a fun, sexy and entertaining show.

Don't see it if You are looking for a plot, it is a series of performances based on Alice.. beautifully done but not a clear plot. You dislike burlesque

Also Company xiv never disappoints!!! I have an excellent time every time i see these wonderful performers. If you're not sure if it's your thing, I recommend checking out their Instagram page.... Read more Read less

See it if You love Star Wars and are familiar with the whole franchise (see comments) You enjoy silly shows

Don't see it if You dont know anything about SW or have seen the movies ages ago (see comments). You want a big production

Also I had seen the originals and the prequels a looong time ago, but felt i was familiar with the overall story. That being said, i didnt get a lot of the references in the show (a lot of quotes and jokes that Star Wars fans seemed to enjoy). So if you're a big fan i think you'll enjoy the show, it's a cute treat. If you're not, you won't get a lot of it. (I got a free ticket through Show-Score, i probably wouldn't have bought it myself).
It's silly, kind of a teenage humor type of show. It was funny but still a little dumb in my opinion (again, perhaps if you get all the jokes and references it's more enjoyable)
That being said, the Hamilton parody style song for the prequels was brilliant! Best part of the show and im happy i got to see it. Along with the costumes, that song made it worth it.... Read more Read less

See it if You want to hear a well written, impacting point of view on the US Constitution and how it impacts people in a positive and neg way.

Don't see it if You have an issue with topics like abortion, domestic violence, politics and the privilege of white men in control. you dislike solo shows

Also I have to admit at first glance this show didn't seem appealing to me, however, it surprised me. Although it drags on a little bit in the middle (100 min, no intermission) it is definitely not a boring show. The way she wrote it and the flow of the show really keeps your attention. Her stories are relevant and touching. You really leave the show with a lot on your mind and it keeps you thinking days on after.... Read more Read less