K.E.N.

See it if you are a Tracy Letts fan or if you have some expectations of his style of writing

Don't see it if you are not prepared for a surprise ending or one that will make you reflect

Also An unsatisfying evening in the theater awaits audiences who attend this effort. Although some performances are noteworthy, even those are not enough to overcome a troubling and unsettling presentation. A minimum of chuckles precedes an ending that results in a perplexing conclusion.
Its deliverance will hand theatergoers a challenge to reflect and analyze "why?" Yet that is not enough to justify a convoluted mess that attempts to deliver a message of learning.
An effort to resolve & process any sense of reasoning most likely will prove futile.... Read more Read less

See it if you remember the first Jewish Miss America & NYC icon & are curious to learn more about her.

Don't see it if you do not like solo, intermissionless plays.

Also Told from Grant's perspective, one cannot but wonder how much is exacerbated or embellished, as we do not get to hear Mom's side of the story. Not exactly a stereotype "Mommie Dearest," still there are some painful recollections of growing up the only child of this public figure. And being Jewish certainly is at the core of both of their stories and paths.
An actress, Ms. Grant is not. Her Playbill resume touts multiple writing credits, so it is reasonable to observe that those tools might have been utilized to edit and tighten up this piece. The story moves awkwardly to indicate the passage of time with the author's bad dancing to the music of the era & the repeatedly early morning phone calls to daughter from Mom.
Forgiveness is the ultimate lesson & in Ms. Grant's case, distinction is earned that she showcases that in her autobiographical play, despite its flaws.... Read more Read less

See it if if you are a fan of Charles Busch.

Don't see it if you can't let go & just enjoy the escape for what it is.

Also Charles Busch is an NYC theatre icon. I have enjoyed many of his past productions which have literally been LOL-Hilarious. I would say, however, this is not his best effort. His signature of exaggeration is there for sure, but frequently it only produces a smile, as opposed to a guffaw.
Jennifer Van Dyke is a marvel portraying four different characters throughout the piece.... Read more Read less

See it if you want a magical night in the theatre that will restore brightness to you through the experience.

Don't see it if you are a scrooge or you are not open to a new exposure to a timeless classic.

Also memorable performances by Scott, Martin & LaChanze. Tiny Tim portrayed by an actor that actually has cerebral palsy. Touching and incredibly special. The lighting is terrific. Background carols and live musician handbells add a unique accent to an affecting evening.... Read more Read less

See it if you 'see everything' & want to support artistic effort in general.

Don't see it if your expectations are to be enthralled by a good mystery.

Also This story is indeed "broken," however I feel guilty in that I have no suggestion(s) on how to 'unbreak' it.
It is not awful; it is just not very good. I found that it did not hold my interest & I did not care what revelation the solving of the mystery might bring.
I thought the actress, Jessie Ruane, as Jess, who is saddled with the majority of the narration of the story failed to project, frequently mumbled her lines with her eyes downcast & challenged the audience to attempt to logically follow her.
I suppose if they were going for tacky costumes, the succeeded there. (Specifically, did ya get a gander at those hot pink fur-boots worn by the character of Darby?)... Read more Read less

See it if you are open to a rising playwright or are a fan of E.M. Forster & Howards End.

Don't see it if you're expecting to see the next "must-see" hot property. If so, then you've set yourself up to be disappointed.

Also A capable cast makes an honest attempt to deliver this story --- but that story is only able to present an interesting moment intermittently.
Ambitious? Might be a compliment to describe a work, but in this case: not.
Instead, it is rambling and erratic.
It is too long, yes, but Samuel H. Levine and Lois Smith give memorable performances.
Some of those who actually were "in the trenches" during the AIDS crisis of the late eighties and early nineties might appreciate this attempt to convey that legacy left to today's generation in this account. However, what they lived is not successfully captured in this desultory and aimless endurance test.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a fan of Harvey Fierstein & want to celebrate this glimpse of a woman who was a leading feminist.

Don't see it if you do not like shows that are dialogue-driven by a singular character.

Also Fierstein's take on this woman is mesmerizing (and he's not even in drag!) He has captured her essence & gives an interpretation that is spot-on. Those that remember her will be reminded why she was so revolutionary, so revered, so respected and so loved. Those that do not (or have only read about her) will be gifted to tutelage, sprinkled with laughter (along with 'breaking-of-the-fourth wall'), in 90 minutes showcasing her legacy & why she was known as "Battling Bella."... Read more Read less

See it if for nothing else Mary Louise Parker's performance. It alone is Tony-nominee worthy.

Don't see it if you don't want to be challenged in your thinking about a literary work that is both portent and foreboding as it unfolds.

Also If you think you are familiar with the style of Adam Rapp, the message, the style of his writing, this work might just prove you wrong.
Monologue-heavy in both the first and third person. A complex presentation about the written work & how it can be influenced by what happens to one in life. Intoxicating.... Read more Read less

See it if you are seeking a joyous evening of theatre! If you love this classic & want to see the story & music you know in a moving work: Go!

Don't see it if you do not like minimalism and are not prepared to read supertitles

Also Joel Grey's direction is brilliant! Steven Skybell is a memorable Tevye.
My one criticism is that the English & Russian supertitles of the Yiddish dialogue & vocals are projected stage left & stage right. Therefore if you are reading a line (you might not know) it is not possible to do so and still see the stage movement of the actor. I would prefer that these projections, instead be center...I think that would overcome this roadblock that prohibited the audience member from having to make a choice.
Also "The Dream" was incredibly staged! I was mesmerized & on the edge of my seat during it.
Kudos to the National Yiddish Theatre!... Read more Read less

See it if you are attracted to great storytelling.

Don't see it if you are resistant to a work that requires close attention and concentration on your part.

Also Jonny Lee Miller was terrific! Kudos, too for the projection design from Jon Driscoll --- a character in itself. I was hypnotized by the way Lynne Page's choreography of the ensemble works so well as they present a chilling story that resonates in our world today of collective behavior & serving the almighty dollar.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to discover an atypical breakthrough in musical theatre.

Don't see it if you expect a traditional 1943 R & H revival. Nor, if you aren't open to receiving a somber side of a wonderful show in simple staging,

Also Daniel Fish has given us an imaginative, rejuvenation of a classic in a somber, but bedazzling expansion for a nouvelle audience. Its splendid score is retained (every original word), and yet a modernistic, present-day production emerges from a most-talented cast.
And albeit a tad lengthy, I really respected the modern dance dream ballet performed by Gabrielle Hamilton that opens Act II.
(& the chilli was tasty, too!)... Read more Read less

See it if you are a Metcalf fan. She is phenomenal!

Don't see it if you are looking for splashy costumes or elaborate sets. This production's focus is on words & being thought-provoking.

Also This comedy will be polarizing to its audiences...they will hate it or love it. Black or White. No Grey. It explores the complexity of commitment and love in a marriage. It is a character study. Politics secondary here. A look inside a unique relationship, albeit fiction...between a couple: one who just happened to be POTUS; one who wants to be.... Read more Read less

See it if you are attracted to experiencing a memorable performance by Driver. And a Wilson classic piece.

Don't see it if the language might offend you or you cannot appreciate the humor in its delivery

Also This revival of a Landford Wilson work is a 'must-see' for the playwright's fans. Adam Driver gives a very engaging performance. And Brandon Uranowitz is very funny & clever. Keri Russell holds her own in a less flashy role than that of Pale and her costumes are all gorgeous. I couldn't help but recognize her tender interpretation of Anna.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a fan of Debra Jo Rupp. She is terrific! You want a thought-provoking experience, that also provides some humor.

Don't see it if you do not want to have seen a play that will leave you with some unanswered questions.

Also It is intelligent, current, well-performed. I found the bridal couple both verged on annoying. I just couldn't warm up to either of them. Their character development was somewhat lacking. However, the play does present a balance of both sides of an argument and it presents them fairly.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see an original, unique, smart producton.

Don't see it if you expect a normal, "run-of-the-mill" drama or comedy.

Also Heidi Schrek is terrific! It is moving to the Helen Hayes for a limited run. Don't. Miss. It.... Read more Read less

See it if you are ready to have a pull of your heartstrings. Seek a romantic storyline while having some fun.

Don't see it if you seek big, elaborate production numbers. or are a prude who is easily offended by sexual situations or don't have a sweet tooth for pie

Also Saw Joey McIntyre in his debut performance & he did just fine. Stephanie Torns as Jenna has a BIG, POWERFUL, WONDERFUL voice! Christopher Fitzgerald who portrays Ogie steals the show. He is hilarious! Great contemporary, original music.... Read more Read less

See it if only if you understand it is a play with music --- NOT a musical. The acapella harmony is often beautiful.

Don't see it if you aren't up for a thought-provoking performance, despite its shortcomings.

Also Performances are sincere, and the music/movement is nice. Somewhat has fallen victim to homophobia & racist stereotypes in the writing.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see great choreography & escape in a fun evening. Clever and the performance are sincere in their commitments.

Don't see it if if you are a prude...or not a good sport.

Also Angie Schworer was delightful! And kudos, too for Beth Leavel and Brooks Ashanskas.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a Sam Shepard fan. After all, it was a Pulitzer Prize finalist: see why.

Don't see it if Initially slow, so don't see it if you are not patient. But eventually it will pull you in.

Also Universal in its sibling rivalry message. I had not seen the previous incarnations, so had no comparison to measure.
I think Ethan Hawke is a consummate actor, so to recommend it based on his performance alone...worth it.... Read more Read less

See it if if you loved the movie. if you want to see a historic production. if you appreciate great writing & an outstanding ensemble.

Don't see it if if you support fake news. if you aren't willing to learn from what is presented.

Also Bryan Cranston simply EMBODIES Howard Beale.
THAT. IS. ALL.
Go ahead & put his name down in ink as the Tony Award winner for Best Actor in a Play next year.
Put it in ink; you won't need to use a pencil. You're not going to have to erase it.
This is a limited run. Take note.
An outstanding cast supports Cranston...particularly Tony Goldwyn & Tatiana Maslany.
I was mesmerized by the graphic projections. Many brought memories of what I have seen previously on TV during my life.
This is the unique show that reminds me how fortunate I am to be able to see the talent on and off Broadway!
"I'M MAD AS HELL AND I'M NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE!"... Read more Read less

See it if u want razzle-dazzle & a clap-your-hands along performance. U won't b able 2 sit still while u experience joy (& learn about Cher's life)

Don't see it if you are a cynic. you don't want to have a good time. you were never a fan of Cher (or Sonny, either)

Also Yes, this show is so OTT, but in a good way.
Yeah, it's a 'jukebox' musical, too, but staged in a fun, energizing --- wow "Did I just see that?" presentation.
Stephanie J. Block most definitely deserves a Tony Best Actress nomination --- she'll be a frontrunner for the win.
Bob Mackie MUST win the Tony for his costumes Gasps many times from audience members, as another one was revealed: could they believe their eyes?
The ensemble works like clockwork & dance together like they've been a troupe forever.
Quick changes are seamless & you might want to wear sunglasses with that wonderful lighting.
Sunburn also a definite possibility for those in the upfront, close & personal seats.
Do you love Cher?
THEN. DON'T. MISS. IT.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a fan of Mr. Williams. Like ensemble work. Have interest in each characters "story" & how each contributes to the plot.

Don't see it if If dominant character-narrator moving storyline forward can overpower ur enjoyment of it. You don't know what to "expect" in Williams' work

See it if u r interested in learning about Native Americans & desire 2 be educated while entertained & LOL

Don't see it if u need intermission; not open-minded; r can't accept thought provoking work

See it if you are a fan of Channing. you are attracted 2 stories about family-relationships or character who is an author. you want to be challenged

Don't see it if you see cliche's in every line. you don't want to pay attention. you are cynical about what unfolds in a fictional work.

See it if you want 2 c 3 great performances. A story that will keep u enthralled by ur attempt 2 figure out "what's true?" (as opposed to 'Fake News.'

Don't see it if u want music. u can't separate the real "celebrity' from the role. u don't like being challenged by the story line as it unfolds.

See it if you are a Jerry Herman fan & want to experience an energizing presentation.

Don't see it if you are unable to meet the window of limited performances.

Also Mack & Mable is an appropriate choice to join the ENCORES! repertoire. A show with a banner score, but a faulty book, nonetheless it garners awareness for those not familiar & attention from those who are.
It is a talented cast; both Sills & Socha are in fine voice. Never realized until seeing this, that Mack & Mable never have a duet.
I particularly like director Rhodes choice of a new ending that emphasizes missing Mable through a montage of her Sennett film roles. Very effective.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to experience an energetic evening of a rarely-revived musical that is a well-honed production.

Don't see it if you are expecting to see a staged version of the Debbie Reynolds movie.

Also Beth Malone is bright, winsome & captivating as she leads an ensemble that is charming & talented. She shines! The modified book that has been refashioned to reflect the contemporary immigration issue in the America which we now live works. Act 2 slows the pace down somewhat as the emphasis is shifted to Molly's philanthropic work & social causes, (from the original 60's Broadway staging) as details of her time in Europe are minimized.
Overall, however, a refreshing show that succeeds & delivers.
Sidebar: I do not understand why her husband's character name was changed from Leadville Johnny Brown to J.J.... Read more Read less

See it if you like a spectacle & don't mind that it's a tourist-trap that will draw em in spending big bucks 'cause they heard it is 'the one' to see.

Don't see it if you are a fan of the movie. 'Tis ain't it.

Also This is a loud, vulgar version of a film many loved. A homage to it? Nope. Instead: fluff that is filled with excessive snippets of songs the producers hope audience members will recognize & therefore hum along. Olivo & Tveit have zero chemistry & therefore we can't buy that they are lovers. However, she does have a nice voice & tries hard. Kudos to her for her effort. Offensive that it can't appropriately end when the story (line) does. Rather, we get a forced reprise of singing & dancing by the cast & chorus to make sure the audience is all-happy again & leaves the theatre that way. The costumes are flashy, but also fluffy. The lighting is both elaborate and excessive. An empty, deluding experience on Broadway.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a Tina Turner fan.

Don't see it if you are expecting musical theatre.

Also SPOILER ALERT: Adrienne Warren was out at the performance I saw. That disappointment being noted...her understudy Kayla Davion (normally Ikette #2) was quite good --- which would be expected for one portraying Tina Turner. She had a strong, robust voice and vigorously threw herself completely into her performance.
The book of this juke-box review is incredibly weak and the sets appeared cheap-looking to me. Lighting was energetic and one of the best things about the production.
But it is not musical theatre. it is just not.... Read more Read less

See it if because it is Horton Foote. And that in itself is enough! And also because this is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work.

Don't see it if you are not patient enough to allow a heart rendering story to unfold.

Also Performances by Aidan Quinn as Will & Kristine Nielsen as Lily Dale are inspiring and as such, they complement each other in a way that will pull you in, and have you rooting for them. Part of the beauty of this gripping story is what remains unsaid.
There were times I found the direction lumbering & awkward with the in and out entrances & exits of the characters which was distracting and seemed unnecesssarily frequent. In addition, I found the character of Etta Doris (SPOILER ALERT!) who does not appear until late in the second act superflous. What was the point of her? Added nothing significant to the story IMHO.
Lastly, Kudos to costume designer Van Broughton Ramsey's 1950's creations for Nielsen. Mamie Eisenhower would have been delighted to wear any of them!... Read more Read less

See it if you're a big Bway fan & want a fun evening of escape with chuckles galore.

Don't see it if you are too critical & judgmental --- it's light, innovative in the "Forbidden" tradition not to be taken too seriously.

Also Joshua Turchin is woefully miscast in my opinion. His take on Santino Fontana as Tootsie is the most glaring illustration of this. It was excruciating. Casting him just in order to have an age-appropriate Evan Hansen appear...big mistake.
The parodies of OKLAHOMA! & a Yiddish Fiddler were the best bits for me.
And The Ferryman spoof was LOL-Funny!
Immanuel Houston's take on Jennifer Holiday was a highlight. Jenny Lee Stern proves her versatility in a variety of quirky lampoons.... Read more Read less

See it if if you know someone in the cast & as a friend, you have to go to support them

Don't see it if just don't bother

Also cheap & tacky set (what there was of it), really awful script, bad performances, cliche's galore, just awful (and that's being nice.) I needed to go to an E.R. after visiting this E.R.... Read more Read less

See it if you have a comp ticket. That's the only way you'll get your moneys worth.

Don't see it if you have expectations for a good experience at the theatre. Or if you are expecting good acting.

Also Well, the set was nice (however cramped.)
But the only positive part was the slow-motion sequence towards the end
All evening, experiencing this contrived plot, I kept asking, "Why?"
The direction is bad...the blocking even worse.
Actors did not seem to be committed. Performances were routine & robot.
Karen Forte as Mavis was particularly painful; she twists her facial features as she continually drops in & out of a phony accent.
Alison Preece as Victoria is as shrill as any cliched bride-to-be can be.
And the weak decadence of the character Marcel Nistlerood portrayed by Kyle Porter was utterly uncalled for in misplacement.
God Bless Galen Mock as Garrett & John Coleman Taylor as Prim for attempting to give some credence to this train wreck.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see the performance that probably will win the Best Actor in a musical Tony

Don't see it if you are such a fan of the movie that you'll resent the story changes

Also Santino Fontana works hard --- most likely has given a Tony-Winning performance.
John Belhmann & Sara Stiles are terrific! Both provide many laughs.
Lots of blue hair in the audience of the matinee I attended. They + tourists will probably keep this running.
As disappointing as it was for me, there were a few times I found it charming, but mostly that was when Fontana was in the scene.
I thought the sets were really, really tacky. (With a capital "T")... Read more Read less

See it if you are open to a thought-provoking and groundbreaking piece. It is shocking satire.

Don't see it if you are easily offended by language

Also Uneven at times, however still an opportunity to see some great acting; particularly by Crystal Lucas-Perry. And a chance to see a passionate piece of work by a young playwright with a bright future.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a Shakespeare fan & are interested in seeing a production of a classic that has been given a contemporary, modernized flavor.

Don't see it if you are not willing to invest almost 3 hours in its audience.

Also Innovative and updated but will require an investment from you of endurance. And you must pay close attention to the dialogue. Performers are committed, however performances are uneven.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a BEETLEJUICE fan.

Don't see it if you have expectations of a good score, and a story that will make you care.

Also I did not see the movie, however, I understand some of the darkness was dropped to produce a "family-friendly" production. Lighting & projections impressive; sets, ambitious. When Brightman was on stage as BJ, I was having fun --- otherwise MEH. Caruso/Lydia has great chops; vocally strong, but I frequently could not understand her --- with such a poor discernible product, what did it matter? I could not warm up to her. ACT 2 is the 3 D's: Drags, Drawn-Out, Downhill.... Read more Read less

See it if you are a fan of Nathan Lane. Or of Titus Andronieus.

Don't see it if u have anything better to do with 1 hour 35 minutes. R if u do not mind being ripped off at the box office (or whatever you spend on a tkt)

Also In seeing shows on Bway for over 40 years --- I have NEVER walked out of a show --- I came close to doing so at this one. Nathan Lane & Kristine Nielsen would be wise not to include this on any future resume. Julie White did a monologue at the start; some in the audience were laughing --- I was not --- (In fact, I DID NOT laugh once through this whole show.) --- 'cause I could not understand one single word Ms. White was putting forth in her monologue. The set was impressive. That's the only positive thing I can say.... Read more Read less

See it if you have nothing else better to do with your time

Don't see it if you want an absorbing show that will hold your interest. This one will not.

Also cast is enthusiastic, but mostly scream lyrics that are not easy-on-the-ear or able to be understood. The repeated cliche' reference to 'chick flicks' gets old quickly. Not a show that will either a) hold your interest or b) present any character you care about... Read more Read less

See it if if you love Sondheim & want to see a troupe that has great chemistry.

Don't see it if you are looking for a big, brassy stereotype musical & are not willing to grasp subtleness

Also Had never seen a production of this show, (although had read it) & remain curious as to why it flopped in 1982. Only one weak link in this cast for me: Bradford. And Narayan was particularly outstanding! Worth seeing for his performance alone. I had no trouble following a story that goes backward in time & that uniqueness continues to intrigue me.... Read more Read less

See it if you are curious about the only "comedy" that Eugene ONeill wrote.

Don't see it if you are not patient. Keep in mind it is dated.

Also The actors who portrayed Nat & Essie Miller seemed more like Richard Miller's grandparents, as opposed to his mother & father. (But I did like the actress who portrayed Essie.) Those who were cast as Richard and Muriel were most physically attractive & I would describe as "out of central casting." Described as "ONeill's only comedy," I didn't not have many LOL moments, only a few chuckles.... Read more Read less

See it if relevant to today's political climate. Thoughtful & profound.

Don't see it if you aren't 'open' to subtle changes that give certain characters more of a 'voice,' than the novel.

Also Racial injustice is alive & well in this country today. This production provides humor on a serious subject. We can come away from it and make change.... Read more Read less

See it if you want to see the winning Tony Actress. Elaine May's performance as her illness progresses is incredible! What timing! A masterpiece!

Don't see it if I can't think of a reason why you should not see this.

Also The ensemble is perfect together. Joan Allen and Luas Hudges also give memorable performaces.... Read more Read less

See it if You want 2 experience a production both original & absorbing. Showcases a talented ensemble that exhibits acting, as well as musical chops!

Don't see it if There is an ounce of cynicism in you.

See it if you love to laugh; you appreciate character actors you are aware it is a 2-person show who play all the roles

Don't see it if you can't keep up with a fast moving plot

Also Very clever & entertaining. Laughed a lot. Both actors are incredibly adept at turning on a dime to change back & forth among multiple roles. (They handle simple props to help accomplish this beautifully.)
Reminded me somewhat of GREATER TUNA which I saw over 30 years ago.... Read more Read less

See it if If you're a feminist. If you're moved by history & struggle 2 get where we are today & if you believe we still have more work 2 do.

Don't see it if you r a cynic. you r a misogynist you r a racist if any of these save your $$$.

Also C this play and you will leave being a "hope-a-holic."
C this play to see a masterful performance, not only by Christine Lahti, but also the ensemble.
Great graphics & news clips from both the past & our present day!
Has been extended!
Deservedly so.... Read more Read less

See it if u want 2 c powerful performances. if u can stand being on the edge of ur seat.

Don't see it if u r looking 4 a laugh...only tiny chuckles here

Also Exhausted when it ended. Powerful in a good way. Some cliche' lines, some storylines figured out b4 they actually were revealed. Set is fantastic, special effects appropriate. Never watched the TV Show SCANDAL, but Ms. Washington will be a Best Actress in a Drama Tony nominee.... Read more Read less

See it if ur curious & b aware it's a limited run; if u want 2 be part of a unique space. if u like 2 see costumes that both current & vintage.

Don't see it if cliche' lyrics r not ur thing; r if sometimes they get to "cutsy"

Also the company gave it their all & each actor was sincere & genuine in his and/or her performance.... Read more Read less

See it if you are attracted to bizarre. you are a fan of Vonnegut. & if your interest is piqued by an adaption of his work. He wasn't a playwrite.

Don't see it if you are smart...if you are smart...stay away. you can't stomach an endurance test.

Also Actors did work hard, however & that is to be applauded.

See it if Surprised it was written 20 yrs. ago & is so timely today! 90 minutes flew by. Enjoyed much.

Don't see it if you don't like solo shows, with 1 actor playing all roles. No intermission productions.