The Fourth Messenger (NYMF)

See it if You can enjoy watching a show with great potential that isn't quite there yet

Don't see it if You want polish and perfection or hate belting

See it if You want to support a new musical theater voice that's pretty well developed and a storyline that has surprising resonance.

Don't see it if New age and/or Buddhism turn you off.

Also Clearly my best of fest so far; establishes the thematic tension right away and carries the audience with the score on a journey of spirituality and humanness; beautiful acting and singing crescendoes into real feeling.... Read more Read less

See it if you're drawn to a thoughtful, imaginative musical w/ smart book, lyrics and music performed by a very competent cast.

Don't see it if you expect a big, polished musical w/ elaborate staging and costumes. Nor if your idea of a musical includes dance as well as music.

See it if you want to see a contemporary take on an ancient legend. The story is interesting fo follow. Strong female lead singer.

Don't see it if you are not interested in somewhat cheesy "follow your calling no matter what" stories. Otherwise solid music and singing.

See it if You enjoy musicals with new-age themes. Great cast, band, music.

Don't see it if storyline changed from debunking a new age guru to finding a family member. Didn't find the family search as interesting.

See it if You enjoy seeing plays about strong woman and great singing

Don't see it if If you don't want to see plays regarding woman's issues.

See it if you research Buddha & the Four Messengers on Wikipedia before you go. That will help you understand what this show aims to be about.

Don't see it if you expect a clear and intelligible narrative and memorable tunes. This show needs to slow down and tell its story simply. Too much noise!

See it if You are a fan of Vienna Teng music, like random plot twists

Don't see it if You don't mind plots not making sense

Also Would have benefited from talkback to ask questions. Didn't really feel like character had much to do with Buddha.... Read more Read less

See it if you like complex depictions of family and spirituality. There are some outstanding musical numbers and truly emotional scenes.

Don't see it if you prefer a tight narrative with a well-balanced story arc. The second act was much better than the first.

See it if You wonder what a contemporary female Buddha would be like. Some of the scenes are funny and smart. I liked the music.

Don't see it if Uneven pacing is bothersome, and the ending was predictable. Was she Buddha or as flawed as us? Can we be both? Unsatisfying answers.

See it if you don't mind a show with a variety of styles--ie serious one scene, farcical the next

Don't see it if you want good music, a solid understandable story that builds and is of one style/genre

See it if you are a feminist

Don't see it if you are close minded or prejudice

See it if you want some great performances in a show that's engaging and beautiful at times. If you can forgive some moments that don't quite work.

Don't see it if you're not forgiving of material that is uneven. If you're only interested in seeing something that's fully baked.

Also Nancy Anderson and Samia Mounts (two leads) were very strong in both singing and acting. They, along with a few other performers, made up for some of the material that was a bit cliched and/or unfocused. There were a few clunky songs, a few too many songs, but the book was interesting and even inspiring at times.... Read more Read less

See it if you like Vienna Teng's music and want strong and memorable music!

Don't see it if you are easily confused.

Also Great music and singing by all involved! The songs were in my head for days after. I love Vienna Teng's music, which is why I saw this. Story is a little disjointed and the ending felt rushed. I felt like I was missing something... but overall enjoyable.... Read more Read less

See it if You're looking to challenge yourself, be transported, go on a journey of the mind and spirit (for real - I promise I'm not w/ the crew!)

Don't see it if You're looking for lighthearted faire, are a strict stickler for book plausibility (see below), value diversity in casting (see below)

Also I have seen six NYMF shows this year and this one is, by far, the strongest. The show really transports you - The Human Experience is wondrously meditative, which is precisely the point. Force of Nature is absolutely infectious - truly astounding. The actress who portrayed Mama Sid was out of this world - I will definitely see other shows of hers. The ensemble was used SO well. My only issue with the show was the 2nd act's book - it has a few significant issues. The major plot reveal was at once cliche and unbelievable - not a good mix. I think it must be dealt with more artfully and carefully. Similarly at the very end, a plot element (the fact that the reporter's boss had published article using hints the reporter had dropped) was not at all believable. It felt completely random and not at all supported by the book. The latter issue is easily fixed, I believe. The former can be fixed too, though with more work. But with a base as strong as this, I am very optimistic!... Read more Read less

See it if You like well crafted musicals, you have a heart, and you ask questions about the universe.

Don't see it if You don't like to think.

See it if you are a fan of Buddha, and nontraditional women

Don't see it if you lack imagination or want a typical musical

See it if You like thought-provoking drama about identity and family. Great, complex songs and wonderful acting!

Don't see it if You're easily lost about plot and non-linear story-telling.

See it if you like thinking about what it means to be human

Don't see it if you're not into spirituality & you don't like crying

See it if LOVED IT!!!!!

Don't see it if DON"T NOT SEE IT

See it if good story line and an unexpected twist. fabulous acting and singing from all members of cast. nancy Anderson as Mama sid fabulous.

Don't see it if dont' see it if you aren't open to some Eastern thought and in depth family drama.