Sing out Louise

See it if Congrats on a Broadway transfer from last season; Sci-fi quirky nerdy musical

Don't see it if High voltage sound to keep up with the “enthusiasm “ of it’s teen fan base. I’m all for loyal Fan’s, but not when it distracts from the...

Also ... experience. This may be a huge reason why it’s repelling some audience members who are beyond their teenage years.

there’s a chance I may have reached my limit of high school musicals for awhile, “as if?”!

It’s fun and worth seeing, but good luck on the behavior of your audience!... Read more Read less

See it if four girlfriends support each other with a little help from their favorite chick flicks (and wine). Pleasant, lighthearted...

Don't see it if needs to turn the dial up a bit on the lyrics and book!

See it if teenage boy and his mom are trying to find their way after their father/husband dies; superheroes appear in different ways. Original musical

Don't see it if still in previews, book needs to be tightened up, but it’s worth checking out; two “11 o’clock numbers” at end need reworking

Also ... I’m very curious to see if Tom Kitt and John Logan make any changes. It’s a little too long and some of the music is repetitive and the story lingers a little too long.... Read more Read less

See it if Go if you love Sondheim, even when it’s not his best show, the score is still classic.

Don't see it if While Sondheim prefers actors who can sing, this just feels like bad dinner theater... Better singers please!!

Also ... I will always love the music to this show ... and maybe, just maybe SOMEDAY they will fix the book... doubtful, gosh knows, they’ve tried and tried and tried!

“It's our time, breathe it in:
Worlds to change and worlds to win...”

“Most friends fade
Or they don't make the grade
New ones are quickly made
And in a pinch, sure, they'll do
But us, old friend
What's to discuss, old friend?
Here's to us, who's like us?
DAMN FEW...”... Read more Read less

See it if Yes, it’s true, Bryan Cranston is captivating on stage! Let’s see who else is “mad as hell”

Don't see it if bold, brash, explosive, edgy, dizzying, in your face

See it if over 20 years ago, this revival opened with perfect casting... one of my favorite Broadway experiences.

Don't see it if thank you to the original creatives Kander, Ebb & Fosse; OBRC: Bebe Neuwirth, Ann Reinking, Joel Grey, James Naughton!

Also I would love to travel back in time to see Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera in the original.... Read more Read less

See it if a cappella prep school choir falls out of harmony amidst homophobia and racism; talented ensemble lead by Jeremy Pope

Don't see it if homophobia, racial slurs, tasteful nudity, friendship, leadership...

Also ... normally I wouldn’t mention the tasteful nudity (of gorgeous bodies), but I could hear several audience members shocked and giggling and gasping (their behavior surprised me).... Read more Read less

See it if the thought of an inclusive prom in small town Indiana has the PTA revolting against a girl who wants to dance with her girlfriend

Don't see it if Just GO!! it’s zany, campy, energetic, fabulous fun... reminds us there is room for everyone!

Also Boy were they having fun on that stage!! Clever lyrics, good book, enjoyable songs... super cast! Brooks Ashmanskas and Beth Leavel give the 20-something’s a run for their money
I would love to see it again, go support this original musical it’s worth it!!

it’s a lot more than just another high school musical (much better music than Mean Girls)... Read more Read less

See it if a man owns a boarding house on the verge of bankruptcy and makes some desperate choices for his family...

Don't see it if tone is unnecessarily depressing; the book doesn’t allow you to care for the characters; songs don’t compliment the storyline. Disappointed

See it if the importance of looking back in order to move forward... you will decide how far we’ve come, how much work is left;theatrical biography

Don't see it if touches on: controversies and painful personal attacks (assuming she slept her way to top, ruined family values); bra burnings...

Also .... safe abortions, equal pay, sexual harassment.

“Gloria” narrates her bio almost as if we were at one of her demonstrations; touches on many other important figures during her life. the evening’s about her life and the structure of the dialogue leaves Lahti little room to really show her talents.

Go to hear her story!... Read more Read less

See it if what a treat to watch Glenn Close perform in that small space; study and enjoy every emotion gesture thought reaction she delivers!

Don't see it if Glenn Close makes this script much more engaging than it actually is...

See it if a revolutionary “collective” is formed with 5 young adults trying to end the Vietnam War...

Don't see it if ...but somehow I quickly lost interest in their “Days of Rage” demonstration. The RAGE feels forced, needs more urgency or something...

See it if Mike’s personal journey with his couch, wife, doctor and his unborn child. Mike is a funny, low key storyteller.

Don't see it if It’s not a play, but I needed a laugh, and got many! Seriously funny moments describing his sleep contraption and unnecessary ball surgery

Also Often when a Broadway theater has a lull before loading in their next show, it opens up opportunities for performances like The New One... this is not a comedy, but a down to earth, “decent guy” sharing his story... or though “baby’s eyes”... Read more Read less

See it if In a case of mistaken identity, what would you do if you received a mysterious check for $56K with your name on it? Cash it?!!

Don't see it if It’s charming and funny... lots a stereotypical characters that might easily remind you of someone you know, but felt one note ...

See it if Elaine May will shatter your heart with her honest, vulnerable and brave performance of aging with Alzheimer’s

Don't see it if without having first hand experience, you might not truly understand; emotions of frustration, fear, sadness and laughter are common

Also How does your personal life impact your appreciation of this play?!

If you know someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s you will recognize a lot of moments from anger, fear, sympathy, impatience, disbelief, sadness and even laughter ...
Disbelief that the mind deteriorates to a point where the person you know is unrecognizable. We need to care for each other even when it’s difficult.

Although I have a personal connection to the subject matter I felt a bit detached (or maybe I went in guarded)... but I was mesmerized at how much I recognized from my own experiences through the dialogue and performances.... Read more Read less

See it if go for the sharp banter between characters and ridiculous one-liners; grifters target a talented man’s pride and integrity.

Don't see it if admit it, if you had problems with the British accents, this probably isn’t the first time you’ve had this problem?!

Also Although it’s by the same playwright who wrote One Man Two Guvnors which helped James Corden career, I’m not sure this is the best way to promote this show. I think my expectations were higher...... Read more Read less

See it if Many of Lerner & Loewe’s most recognizable songs are sprinkled through the show

Don't see it if I love classic musical theater but this show sadly underwhelmed me, my least favorite revival that I’ve seen in a long time.

Also Lauren Ambrose is a fabulous actress with a beautiful voice, but she doesn’t have the ability to project when she sings. She was so engaged and committed but those moments were incomplete since you had to strain a little to hear her sing.

Loved listening to some of the classic songs, performed beautifully (Loverly, I Could’ve Danced All Night, Street Where You live, Ascot Gavotte, Rain in Spain) but otherwise I found the storyline boring and slow.... Read more Read less

See it if tugs at insecurities we felt in high school; fabulous cast; fun high school characters

Don't see it if this sci-fi, pop-culture musical takes it a little too far in parts of the second act but overall a great show; congrats BROADWAY BOUND!

Also Will Rowland, went from supporting nerdy-man in DEH to leading nerdy-man in BMC. Loved this cast Gerard Canonico, Stephanie Hsu, George Salazar, Tiffany Mann, Lauren Marcus, Katlyn Carlson.

the desire to be accepted is universal ... which is why it appears in so many storylines in theater (DEH, Mean Girls, even Wicked). It’s uncomfortable to feel left out. In BMC, a little pill from Japan seems like a perfect solution... ?

Loved the smartphone hour, Iconis’ version of “Bye Bye Birdie’s” Telephone Hour (“what’s the story morning glory, what’s the word humming bird “) and it gives the female characters a fun spotlight number.... Read more Read less

See it if could redheads be extinct by 2100 leaving a world filled with blondes and brunettes... not if they can spread the word to procreate!

Don't see it if there’s a lot of hard work happening on that stage! funny moments;some good songs highlight vocal talents... deserves more development

See it if Based on true events: sexual slavery by Imperial Japanese Army in WW2 of young Korean girls/women

Don't see it if musical theater can spotlight serious/dark subject matter, but if you don’t agree, than this isn’t for you. worth future development

Also This review is for the current production at PH August 2018 not for 2015. There are two similar listings on Show Score with the same art work... Read more Read less

See it if some might consider it a provocative perspective of race and racial assumptions; I love theater that provokes discussions.

Don't see it if you don’t like being challenged to... THINK!

Also Don’t be concerned about some of the reviews that say you might feel uncomfortable! It’s important to open you eyes, ears and mind to this show.
And...
Who knows, you might even learn a little more about yourself.... Read more Read less

See it if Leiber and Stoller’s 50-60’s blues and rock n roll hits are endless in this musical revue.

Don't see it if In 90 minutes, this show feels over stuffed with music; but there are many highlights that will keep your toes tappin’

Also Thanks to a run at the Ogunquit Playhouse in Maine which received positive reviews, early previews feel well polished.

there is no book or character development... with no storyline it feels long... the direction/choreography does a great job with transitions from song to song to song.

Cast delivers the material without over singing it... they are all very talented (some are triple threats)... Alysha Umphress’ vocal style really stands out among the women but they are all excellent.

Stage42 feels a little cavernous for this intimate show and I was sitting in the rear orchestra which feels like stadium seating. This may have impacted my overall experience.

Highlights include:
“Saved”
“Stand by Me”
“There goes my Baby “
“Love Potion #9”
“I’m a Woman”
“Trouble”
“On Broadway “
Dueling Pianos
Etc. etc.....

Smokey Joe’s Cafe originally opened on Broadway in 1995 and enjoyed a long run... welcome back to NYC, based on the crowd’s response this production will do well, off Broadway!... Read more Read less

See it if Jordan Harrison’s tone feels more commercial than his other work; pushes discussions of defining one’s identity/acceptance.

Don't see it if Privilege, normalcy, racism, narrow-minded vs progressive views, marriage, parenthood; debates important topics within LGBTQ community.

See it if Sensational performance by Carey Mulligan; every word and move wonderfully executed.

Don't see it if Some men just aren’t ok with women who seem to have it all.

Also You can feel the audience hold their breath as she unveils the dark side of her story.

I loved this performance and was totally engaged... Mulligan is perfect for a solo show. I will definitely run to see her again on stage! But I can’t put my finger on why I didn’t give it a higher score.... Read more Read less

See it if wonderful ensemble cast brings Dominique Morisseau‘s characters more depth; great performances!

Don't see it if “He just wanna be mighty but the world keep him small. the cost of being colored and gifted Brilliant and second class. Make you insane.”

Also Part of Dominique Morisseau’s Detroit trilogy, we meet her characters in Detroit’s Paradise Valley Black Bottom where Blue owns a club that has rooms to rent above it. He is scheming to sell it ... he wants to escape his demons by relocating to Chicago. He believes his girlfriend Pumpkin (Krystolyn Lloyd) pure nature can save him.

Pumpkin takes care of folks in a community that has always been there for her... she’s torn between saving Blue by leaving Paradise or staying in the community that has always embraced her.... Read more Read less

See it if Through the looking glass and down the rabbit hole... find out what’s at stake when you run out of time in wonderland

Don't see it if starts to sound repetitious, but there are some great songs; go for great voices, choreography, sets. Bring us more queen, less puss

Also Alice tries to buy her dying friend more time between the fantasy world of her favorite book and WWII (love the underground tube station bunker; gas masks smartly incorporated as reminders of the reality outside of Wonderland). There is the reminder that time is running out.

Great cast (and stellar vocals): Molly Gordon, Grace McLean, Wesley Taylor (although I didn’t like the Mad Hatter song), Heath Saunders.

Very clever at times ... and sometimes it felt like it was working too hard to make a point that missed its mark.... Read more Read less

See it if a golden musical classic, from the original creative team Bock, Harnick, Stein and Robbins. Timeless! Authentic!

Don't see it if there’s no good reason not to see it, even if you’ve seen other productions and feel like you’ve had your fill of this MUSICAL TRADITION

Also ... Tradition, If I were a Rich Man, Sunrise Sunset, Matchmaker and many others!... Read more Read less

See it if 40 years after her break out role, a black actress feels trapped by the character she portrayed on screen... fabulous cast!

Don't see it if time jumps 40 years ahead in 2nd act and gives an interesting point of view; in previews 2nd act doesn’t feel polished (stumble with lines)

See it if A great vehicle for Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein ‘s first musical theater collaboration; Billy Porter was electric as my Lola!

Don't see it if I’m so happy for this show’s success, but not one of my personal favorites. I’m still glad I saw it.

See it if the movie was adorable... the musical needs a “makeover”.

Don't see it if 90s soundtrack with new lyrics that are forced in to fit the characters and storyline; many of the well known movie lines fell flat...

Also ... the movie lines in Mean Girls worked, it didn’t in Clueless. It was fun to hear familiar 90s music... there are moments where the revised lyrics work (ie. NSYNC’s Bye Bye Bye) but for the most part I was rolling my eyes. Over the top and poking fun works in The Prom... it doesn’t in Clueless.

Do yourself a huge favor, the New Group who is producing this off broadway musical charges as much as a discounted Broadway orchestra ticket! Go get a discount ticket to The Prom instead!!... Read more Read less

See it if there have been several wonderful LGBTQ revivals lately, this is no exception; loved Urie and Ruehl.

Don't see it if I loved Urie, but wish I also saw Fierstein in the original! 1970s drag queen mirrors parts of Fierstein’s life, it does feel a little dated

See it if there’s a 2000 pound gorilla in the room that will no doubt impress you, but did it need to be a musical?

Don't see it if music and book should be scrapped; they should just focus on the puppetry, animatronics and video projections...

Also The Broadway Theater is a perfect venue for spectacles that have a helicopter (Miss Saigon) or a 20 foot GORILLA!

Go enjoy the show for what it is and focus on the production’s effects: the city, the ship, the puppetry, the gorilla, the snake, the escape, the Empire State Building ...... Read more Read less

See it if barbershop quartet enters an amateur contest after they fall short trying to raise money on the Coney Island boardwalk, turn of 20th century

Don't see it if you think barbershop inspired harmonies are old fashioned;the cast of four play multiple characters, many work, but several could be trimmed

See it if I went to watch Tyne and Tim Daly on stage!

Don't see it if emotional abuse, loneliness, mental illness, odd family history, unemployment... it’s also about the true bond between siblings.

See it if A mother, father and two cops (two are black, two are white)... all referencing the same 18 year old black boy we never see.

Don't see it if some writing/ acting/ directing flaws; focus on the importance of the discussion (and changes) it can lead to...

Also how would you process being the face of a race in mostly white school?

Kerry Washington is especially captivating in this show.... Read more Read less

See it if “I hope I get it”... a grueling audition; dancers are slowly eliminated until the perfect combination forms that glorious kick line

Don't see it if if you are allergic to Gold Lamé? But seriously, Encores annual gala is always a highlight for me each season.

Also A Chorus Line opened in 1975 and was once the longest running show on Broadway (until Cats knocked it down to #2... currently it’s the 7th longest running on Broadway).
Marvin Hamlisch and Michael Bennett and the Public’s legacy live on; famously known for opening without star power, without sets, and without a strong plot.

Who wouldn’t want to learn the famous choreography and sing those wonderful songs (“One”, “At the Ballet”, “I Hope I Get It”, “What I did for Love”, etc.).... Read more Read less

See it if Esparza and entire cast thrill in Brecht’s political satire. CSC continues to challenge their audience.

Don't see it if Although the subject didn’t appeal to me, the delivery and Doyle’s direction definitely kept me engaged.

Also Written in the 40s and still relevant today

Stay sharp, actors play multiple roles... follow the hat changes.... Read more Read less

See it if Life in NYC is fast paced, but four New Yorkers experience unexpected connections that make a big impact in their lives.

Don't see it if I enjoy supporting off broadway musicals some need a lot more development, but this one is in great shape already; go and enjoy.

Also How does something small make a big impact in someone else’s life?

Adam Gwon’s charming musical performed by a talented cast. I especially enjoyed Kyle Sherman’s and Sarah Lynn Marion’s quirky characters.

Many gems in this show, including “I’ll Be Here” (which has also been covered by Audra McDonald).... Read more Read less

See it if Heart broken by ghosts of his past, Trevor tells his version of this love story; most of the story takes place before Stonewall riots

Don't see it if Music is pleasant but sleepy... needs more variety

Also It’s an enjoyable evening but I’m surprised by how many reviewers have gushed over this show!... Read more Read less

See it if a 30 something man receives an invite to his ex-girlfriend’s wedding and desperately wants to find someone special to bring as his guest!

Don't see it if a sweet and funny musical with a very talented cast needs a little more... something... but go and support the development of new musicals

See it if a gifted story teller who helps you understand Amendement 14 through personal stories (which she wasn’t able to do as a young debater).

Don't see it if Political, feminism, equal rights, covert resistance, immigration, domestic abuse, rape, birth contol, Patrick Swayze, and sock monkeys.

Also would you compare the constitution to a crucible or patchwork quilt??

although this is political, it didn’t feel like it was constantly bashing the current administration; a constructive view that will lead to more discussions. I would consider seeing this again.... Read more Read less

See it if Provocative humor, unapologetic from this all female fabulous cast. What seems to be so different about these women also makes them similar.

Don't see it if As I was tapping my foot listening to music about pussy before the show began, I knew this would be an interesting play!

Also The entire cast is fabulous!
I’ve now seen Adina Verson three times including “Indecent “ and “The Lucky Ones”, such vulnerably, always present.
Dana Delany’s uptight UES persona gets stripped away by Chaunté Wayans butch.
I never saw “On Your Feet” but Ana Villafañe really displays her Betty stereotype spot on.... Read more Read less

See it if high school buddies reunite and unexpectedly get a “do over” in life; funny, entertaining, lots of Jersey jokes!!

Don't see it if Yes, it pokes fun at NJ stereotypes... it may not be a ground breaking show, but it’s worth picking up a discount ticket.

See it if The glamour and controversy surrounding the nightlife at Studio 54 sounds like a great concept, but this needs a better book, lyrics, music

Don't see it if DISCO is absent in this show; needs more development. (p.s. How many words rhyme with clarinet?)

See it if A campy and fun mash up between the Go-Go’s music and 16th century Arcadia. It totally works! Bravo to the creative team for this “marriage”

Don't see it if Don’t want another juke box.. I’m happy it’s not about the Go-Go’s

Also Admittedly I’m not often the best target audience for juke box musicals, but this absurd combo worked for me.

I am a fan of Michael Mayer and Spencer Lift! Take a “go with it” attitude and have fun! Fabulously over the top... with h a wink (for example, Pamela’s poetic revelation).

Deserves a nomination for best curtain call!!... Read more Read less

See it if Shakespeare’s Richard III reimagined> a high school brainiac is bullied because he is different;

Don't see it if I loved the first 2/3 of the play, but it derails as it moves into its eerie dark scenes.

Also I especially loved Richard’s speeches which bounces between his inner monologues when he’s addressing the audience ... and I loved his scenes with his snarky, sarcastic BFF Buck...... Read more Read less

See it if You want to embrace the disco diva inside you; music still undeniably fabulous! music that will make you want to sing along (please, don’t).

Don't see it if Talented cast, especially LaChanze and Ariana, sound amazing but Donna Summer deserves revisions! There is so much material about Donna...

Also ... but the book writer didn’t honor her triumphs and tragedies in the best way. Go for the MUSIC!!!!... Read more Read less

See it if Anika Noni Rose seduces with smouldering moves and a voice that won’t quit; entire ensemble is wonderful!

Don't see it if The staging of the storyline in the last 20-25 minutes feels a little jumbled; in previews so maybe they will iron out abrupt ending.

Also Originated from Bizet’s opera Carmen; a beautiful blend of opera/musical theater with Hammerstein’s lyrics.

Stand outs:
Dat’s Love, one of several recognizable Bizet melodies... and sets the tone of Carmen’s target!

Beat Out Dat Rhythm on a Drum vibrantly features Soara-Joye Ross as Frankie.

I also loved Lindsay Roberts as Cindy Lou, but the staging had her back to me for most of her songs so I missed the full Impact of her beautiful voice/ performance.

This production is worth seeing for many reasons, even if the material doesn’t completely grab you... I’m impressed with CSC, this was the second show I attended this season. Sound quality is fabulous... and I enjoy stripped down direction!!... Read more Read less

See it if although I'm not a die hard Disney fan this show melted my heart; Patti Murin is delightful.

Don't see it if Disney loves broadway... definitely entertaining, but I worry that one day they will occupy every theater in NYC.

Also I’m guessing Patti and Cassie split the Tony votes... maybe the producers should’ve tried to enter them in different categories. In my opinion, Patti deserved a nom over at least one of the other actresses (no disrespect intended).... Read more Read less