Bright Lights, Big Apple: Your Guide to Not Getting Screamed at by Cats (Probably) on Broadway
So, you're in the concrete jungle where dreams are made of... and also where overpriced hot dogs reside. But hey, that's the price you pay for the magic of Broadway, baby! You're here for the glitz, the glam, the belting voices that could shatter glass (hopefully not your wine glass). But with more shows than your indecisive friend at a brunch buffet, where do you even begin? Fear not, fellow theatre lover, for I am here to be your not-at-all-snobby guide to the current lineup on Broadway.
The Classics: You Can't Go Wrong (Unless You Trip on Stage)
Let's start with the old faithfuls, the shows that have been around longer than your grandma's favorite pair of sensible shoes. We're talking The Lion King, with its stunning visuals that might make you forget you're not actually in the Serengeti (don't worry, Simba won't eat you... probably). Wicked will whisk you away to a land of good witches gone bad and question your entire concept of morality (all while tapping your toes to catchy tunes). And of course, there's Chicago, the show that proves murder can be all jazz hands and sassy one-liners.
Pro-Tip: These shows are popular for a reason, so snag your tickets early! You don't want to be left singing the blues (because you couldn't get tickets to see those singing blues brothers).
The New Kids on the Block (But Hopefully Not a Boy Band This Time)
Looking for something a little fresher than last week's bagel? Broadway's got you covered! There's MJ, the electrifying tribute to the King of Pop that will have you moonwalking in the aisles (metaphorically, please, don't block the exit). A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical will have you dancing on the ceiling (again, metaphorically) to classic hits. And for a twist on Shakespeare, & Juliet reimagines Romeo and Juliet with a modern twist (because apparently, even star-crossed lovers need a social media update).
Word to the Wise: These new productions might still have some kinks to iron out, but they also offer the chance to be part of something fresh and exciting. Just don't be surprised if you see some understudies on roller skates chasing rogue set pieces backstage.
From Back to the Future to Backstage Shenanigans: A Little Bit of Everything
Broadway's a smorgasbord of genres, so there's something for everyone (except maybe those who dislike all things fun). Want a trip down memory lane with a DeLorean twist? Back to the Future is your jam. Feeling Moulin Rouge-ish? The can-can loving musical of the same name will have you saying "oui oui" all night long. And if you're a musical theatre history buff, Merrily We Roll Along will take you on a backwards journey through time (confusing, yes, but also kind of brilliant).
Remember: This is just a taste of the smorgasbord that is Broadway. So grab your playbill, your best friend who can sing along flawlessly (or at least pretend to), and get ready for a night of unforgettable entertainment (and maybe some overpriced popcorn).
