Sing out Louise

See it if A fun, fabulous, splashy, commercial hit, but needs some substance. Great staging!

Don't see it if great playlist of songs which have been updated since the movie; I enjoyed it more than ...

Also ... most other jukebox musicals... It was exactly what I expected, mind numbing, entertaining, high energy ... from the talented cast lead by Tveit, Olivio, Burstein!... Read more Read less

See it if based on the Studs Terkel book, with updated interviews including the City Center employees. great songs, loved the cast!

Don't see it if a wonderful production of a mediocre musical, with songs from Stephen Schwartz, James Taylor, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Craig Carnelia, etc.

Also Andréa Burns, It’s an Art

Helen Hunt, Just a Housewife

Christopher Jackson, Lovin’ Al, The Mason

Javier Muñoz, A Very Good Day, Father & Sons

Tracie Thoms, Millwork, Cleaning Women... Read more Read less

See it if for creatives Nottage, Sheik, Birkenhead and amazing cast including LaChanze and Saycon Sengbloh.

Don't see it if I’ve only seen the movie and love how they have shifted the focus of the story...

Also ... but I feel like Lily has lost her spirit in this version.

I look forward to seeing what happens next for this show. Emotional and honest storytelling of racism, civil rights and common abuse. Go see it!

“Be a slave no more!”... Read more Read less

See it if What’s your relationship with the internet? Do you think you need a 12 step a cappella program to reconnect you to the world?

Don't see it if Malloy’s story telling through harmony, pitch and unique ideas take time to process... it’s a treat for your artistic soul

Also the score would be higher but I just lost interest in the internet theme of the musical.

Malloy is brilliant! I would go back again to appreciate his talent. I find that I really love a lot of his songs, but I don’t always appreciate them on first listen (that’s the “process” I was referring to above).

p.s. and who manages to smartly rhyme lyrics with “melatonin “?... Read more Read less

See it if Crazy talent from the creative team, cast and crew! Especially loved André De Shields as Hermes and...

Don't see it if ... Amber Gray as Persephone. Bold on stage orchestra adds to the New Orleans flair

Also “How does the wall keep us free? The wall keeps out the enemy; And we build the wall to keep us free; That's why we build the wall; We build the wall to keep us free.”... Read more Read less

See it if Great staging of Shepard’s Pulitzer winning play. can you escape the starving class by starting over in Europe or Mexico?

Don't see it if dark lives of a dysfunctional American family... including many conversations around an empty fridge ;)

Also “Signature Theatre celebrates playwrights and gives them an artistic home”, I truly enjoy supporting this non-profit!... Read more Read less

See it if you believe Broadway doesn’t have a soul!

Don't see it if I think I’m personally running out of patience for musicals based on movies! Audience had fun...

Also ... Despite some funny lines, I didn’t have fun. Loved a couple of Sophia Anne/Lydia’s songs and Alex Brightman is the perfect actor to embody the Beetlejuice character with his energy and endless talent... BUT, I think the creative team missed out on a good commercial opportunity with this one. I didn’t see it out of town, but I’m curious to know what they changed before opening on Broadway.

I know the masses expect to see dancing skeletons, but I do NOT 😉 I felt like the creative team just wanted to over load your senses so you might not notice all the flaws.

Kudos to David Korins set, and to the extremely talented cast.... Read more Read less

See it if you will leave the theater with a better understanding of what the constitution means to YOU!

Don't see it if Congrats on bway transfer. Schreck shares personal stories of four generations of women in her family...

Also ... immigration, reproductive rights and what women had to do to risk their lives for abortions, rape, domestic abuse.

This performance should stay with you and open up more discussions!... Read more Read less

See it if an empathy coach is brought in to adjust the misogynistic ways in a debt collecting office.

Don't see it if if absurdist comedy leaves you scratching your head.

Also #metoo, this absurdist approach to inappropriate behavior in this office environment sometimes makes a powerful point (suggests women wear dresses in the office, suggests finding a boyfriend to fend off on wanted sexual harassment, laugh off inappropriate jokes).... Read more Read less

See it if themes of corruption, greed, murder, censorship, conspiracy were controversial when this show originally opened in the late 30s

Don't see it if billed as a “play with music”, it’s mostly sung through; don’t expect memorable melodies. I always appreciate the shows CSC produces ...

Also ... I liked that the actors performed without 🎤 , my hearing is great but I was straining to keep up with the lyrics when actors had their backs to my side of the audience.

Super talented cast... some even rotated on the piano.... 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 Even a mediocre Sondheim show is brilliant! Go to see Esparza and Uranowitz, always gems to watch.

Don't see it if There have been a few other NYC productions. I was happy to see a Sondheim show that I haven’t seen before :)

See it if You love Grace McLean, her voice and incredible vocal style! Interesting choral arrangements.

Don't see it if Bizarre and obscure, sometimes in a good way. I’m curious to see the next chapter for this musical.

See it if “looking at one’s self through the eyes of others”, Jackson’s Usher grapples with many things including doubt, fear, pain, sexuality...

Don't see it if ... boundaries, faith, family, facing rejection , being fat, black, gay... and his inner white girl.

Also Jackson’s voice is refreshing and relevant and wonderful for musical theater ... campy, raunchy, honest, raw, dark and vulnerable

Go see it!... Read more Read less

See it if hysterical, raunchy, clever, smart puppets and the magic of the humans attached to them.

Don't see it if Its had a brilliant run on Broadway and Off Broadway, all good things come to an end.

Also ... and if you’ve ever had a chance to see their BCEFA skits, they are always original, with a timely and “poetic” message.... Read more Read less

See it if great cast including Santino Fontana, Sarah Stiles!!!

Don't see it if I always expect a lot from David Yazbek, lyrics are funny but music isn’t memorable. It’s interesting to hear a man described as difficult..

Also ... “difficult” which some men used to describe women.

On his 40th birthday, this difficult and outspoken actor feels as though his clock is ticking, to find work... it’s almost as if the writers were trying to make a connection to a woman’s biological clock.

I’m thrilled that the critics weren’t harsh, but at the same time I am also a little floored at how much they loved this musical. I’m so tempted to take a break from movie musicals, but there are some that I have enjoyed!

Not a fan of Lilli Cooper’s role or the lack of chemistry with Santino Fontana.

It’s impressive how Santino changed the tone of his voice from Michael Dorsey to Dorothy Michaels... Read more Read less

See it if Could Hillary’s Presidency “eclipse” Bill’s?

Don't see it if Hnath’s lines keep you interested, especially when they are delivered by Metcalf and Lithgow, but it falls short...

Also ... compared to A Doll’s House, Part 2. Even still, it’s a good 90 minutes play.... Read more Read less

See it if All Broadway plays should live up to this example!!! A beloved classic perfectly adapted for the stage.

Don't see it if I read the book so long ago, so I cannot debate how I would feel if the story was fresher in my memory. Just go!!

Also ... segregated Deep South with racism and racial slurs, abuse.

“There’s fundamental goodness in all of us”

Scout, Jem and Dill are all magically believable as children, although they are performed by adults. Celia Keenan-Bolger, Will Pullen and Gideon Glick breathe, move, talk, play and make you believe they are children. It’s impossible to describe until you watch them.

There is so much to admire in this production and of course, the original book.

I would see this again, if I could!!... Read more Read less

See it if you’re “So in Love” with every performance by Kelli O’Hara; and if you love Cole Porter revivals.

Don't see it if you need revivals to alter their original message.

Also shining moment for Corbin Bleu's tap-dancing

See it if this feels like it belongs in Oscar Hammerstein theme park or cruise ship celebration; go for the songs!

Don't see it if strange key changes, unnecessary (and odd)) musical arrangements, over sung...

Also ... over belted, over amplified... odd musical phrasing.

the nostalgia of an Oscar Hammerstein hologram sharing his thoughts and words of wisdom fall flat and doesn’t enhance the production (very clumsy tech challenges) ... the nostalgia doesn’t gel with the strange musical arrangements and performance choices. The hologram is giving the history and it’s as if the performers are ignoring what he has shared. I’m not a Hammerstein purist, this just didn’t work at all.... Read more Read less

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