The Rivals

See it if you want to see EXCELLENT acting, in an open area of central park

Don't see it if sitting on the grass and running around from place to place isn't for you. Location changes roughly every 20 minutes

See it if You have liked other New York Classical Theatre productions in the past and don't mind a bit of a cliched storyline on "mistaken" identity.

Don't see it if You have trouble hearing, don't like sitting outside or don't enjoy having park goers wonder what is going on.

Also Part of the fun of this company is to look around and see people in the park wonder what the play is about and to see people reacting to the actors.

This play was funny and I liked the strong and not what I was expecting female characters from a play written in 1775.... Read more Read less

See it if you like outdoor theater & an fun farce

Don't see it if you don't want to move around a park

See it if Quite nice given that it's free, and you really cannot beat the settings. Other than that, the script's a tad trifling and acting is varied.

Don't see it if You expect a serious drama or object to extraneous noises.

Also I've got to compliment actors' diction here - one can hear just about every word spoken clearly even from rather far away, despite passerbys with boomboxes and helicopters overhead. Overall, it's a very enthusiastic and fairly entertaining performance, especially if you wanted to hang out in Central Park anyway.... Read more Read less

See it if Also known as Shakespeare-on-the-run, you move locations as the scenes change. Professional actors, acting outdoors for great fun!!

Don't see it if You want to just sit and be lulled or cannot easily walk around in a park.

See it if Like walking outside and want fresh air. Want to see an old, old play that isn't Shakespeare.

Don't see it if Don't like the heat, or walking, or not having real seats. Don't like old, old plays that aren't Shakespeare. Can't hear well.

See it if you want to see great theater outdoors. The show is funny and well-acted, and because the audience moves, it's super engaging.

Don't see it if You're looking for serious drama, or if sitting on the ground and having to change places/wander around central park isn't appealing to you.

See it if You like word play

Don't see it if You don't like period pieces

See it if you're alive. You just need 2 hrs and legs for a stroll in the park. NYCT produces outstanding work every year...for free! (You sh donate.)

Don't see it if you hate Restor'n comedies (why?) Characters are drawn w/insight & still resonate. The plot, tho silly, works. You'll catch every word/joke.

Also I am in awe of what Stephen Burdman accomplishes each summer with his NYCT. He chooses wonderful scripts, terrific actors, great park settings, and then in two hours delivers a highly polished production. Go on a nice night (bring a plastic bag to sit on, a sweater, and some organic bug spray) and enjoy the frothy world of Bath in 1775. Zounds! What are you waiting for?... Read more Read less