The First Noel

See it if you can overlook the plot heavy-handedness to enjoy the thoroughly earnest, terrifically performed Harlem Christmas tale that will move you.

Don't see it if you don't want to hear a team of incredibly talented vocalists that surpass most any you'll ever hear, especially Soara-Joye Ross.

See it if This story has a little of everything, so if you like to trigger all of your emotions while being entertained, this one will work for you.

Don't see it if Tired of a sad story that ends happily, skip this. I enjoyed it, but I'm a sap for happy endings. Brought tears to my eyes.

See it if You want to see a profound show with great vocals at the famous Apollo. Wonderful holiday show leaves you feeling warm.

Don't see it if If you a downtown snob who won't travel uptown, don't like holiday shows or are a Scrooge.

See it if you want to see a new twist on dealing with grief

Don't see it if you are too close to losing a child or sister

Also I saw the matinee on Dec 14, 2016 and enjoyed it very much. I found the story to be moving and unfolded in a creative way.

The singing was strong and even the small mix of gospel singing was enjoyable even though that is not usually my thing.

I did find the orchestra to be overly loud at times - over-powering rather than complementing the singing.

The audience was more a family mix than most shows I attend - and there was a young girl (maybe 6 years old) who got scared and starting crying. Her mom was encouraged to take her out to the lobby.... Read more Read less

See it if The vocal talent & musicians are impressive but story is not engaging-- too many elements just underdeveloped & the characters uninteresting

Don't see it if Heavy handed on the gospel, which is pretty impressively executed, but if that's not your thing--don't bother

Also It's a memory piece, where the main female lead is getting ready to sell her family's Harlem Brownstone and has, what is tantamount to a flashback of her mostly messed up childhood in that home, while she is waiting for the broker to return with the sales paperwork. The flashback is the basis for the plot of the show, which is 90 minutes runtime without intermission.... Read more Read less

See it if you appreciate family drama, like Harlem/NYC stories, holiday music, and stories that mix past and present.

Don't see it if you dislike holiday musicals, gospel music, or drama involving personal tragedy.

See it if I loved everything about this play - story, singing, audience reaction. Left theater happy and with love in my heart

Don't see it if the location is not good for you. can't find other reasons