Posts Tagged ‘broadway’

It’s 2023 and Broadway’s Back

New York theatergoers joyfully returned to Broadway in 2022 after a closure of 18 months. 2023 promises to be even more jubilant. With the many openings scheduled for this spring along with continuing and long-running shows, theatergoers have a robust selection of plays and musicals to enjoy.

How to Keep on Top of Broadway News

Some shows have limited runs. Others are still in previews with official openings planned in time for Tony Award consideration. The American Theatre Wing’s Tony Awards® on June 11 will take place at Harlem’s historic United Palace Theater. Tickets are available on Telecharge, or watch on CBS, livestream, or on demand at Paramount+.

To keep abreast of theater news, schedules and special deals, sites like The Broadway Collection, The Broadway League, TelechargeBroadway Box, Playbill and Today Tix are updated regularly.

Download the TKTS app for real-time listings at the Theater Development Organization’s discount, day-of ticket booths at Father Duffy Square just north of Times Square, or at their Lincoln Center location.

Museum of Broadway - HAIR © Darren Cox

For a refresher on everything Broadway, the new Museum of Broadway, just steps from Times Square, is an interactive celebration of the history, behind-the-scenes views and Broadway’s game changers. On display are hundreds of rare costumes, props and artifacts dating from 1732 to today.

Here is the latest roundup of ongoing, new or soon-to-open shows.

Currently Open

A Beautiful Noise, the Neil Diamond Musical © Julieta Cervantes

A Beautiful Noise, the Neil Diamond Musical

A fun jukebox musical for fans of Neil Diamond, A Beautiful Noise follows the singer-songwriter over 50 years from his earliest days in Brooklyn along the path to his astronomical rise as musical superstar. Through the lens of conversations with his therapist, the artist’s trials and successes are illustrated through the Neil Diamond songbook with favorites like “Sweet Caroline,” “America” and “Cracklin’ Rosie.”

Broadhurst Theatre, www.abeautifulnoisethemusical.com

Jessica Chastain from A Dolls House © Giampaolo Sgura

A Doll’s House

The well-known Henrik Ibsen drama, in a new version by Amy Herzog, stars Academy Award ® winner Jessica Chastain. Shocking when it appeared in the late 1800s, the play is now as relevant as ever. The play’s limited run has been extended through June 4.

Hudson Theatre, www.adollshousebroadway.com

Aladdin - Michael Maliakel & Shoba Narayan © Matthew Murphy

Aladdin

One of two Disney super shows currently on Broadway, Aladdin is celebrating its tenth year. A great introduction to live theater for viewers of all ages, the musical is the consummate tour of adventure mixed with song. You’ll recognize larger-than-life Genie’s “You’ve Never Had a Friend Like Me” and Aladdin’s “I Can Show You The World.”

New Amsterdam Theatre, www.aladdinthemusical.com

& Juliet © Matthew Murphy

& Juliet

Created by the writer of “Schitt’s Creek,” jukebox musical-comedy & Juliet asks the question, what would Juliet do if she reinvented her life without Romeo? Is Romeo totally out of the picture? You’ll have to see this musical to find out. Pop hit after hit (28 in total!) will keep you smiling and rooting for Juliet with anthems like “Since U Been Gone,” “Baby One More Time,” “It’s My Life” and “Roar.” Lorna Courtney is fabulous as the rambunctious Juliet with a fun, unusual pop turn by opera singer Paolo Szot.  

Stephen Sondheim Theatre, www.andjulietbroadway.com

Bad Cinderella © Emilio Madrid

Bad Cinderella

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new West End musical about a feisty Cinderella has finally arrived on Broadway. Set in Belleville where everyone is beautiful, Cinderella stands out in more than one way.

Imperial Theatre, www.badcinderella.com

Bob Fosse’s Dancin’ © Julieta Cervantes

Bob Fosse’s Dancin’

With Tony Award-winning choreography by Bob Fosse, Dancin’ returns to Broadway after its original 1978 run. Reimagined for the 21st century, the show is 120 minutes of wall-to-wall dance and songs selected by Fosse.

The Music Box Theatre, https://dancinbway.com

The Book of Mormon © Joan Marcus

The Book of Mormon

Do you love South Park? Then this play-cum-musical is a must for you. A little offensive and a lot crazy, the show irreverently tells the tale of two Mormon missionaries who have been given their first “conversion” assignments far far away from their home towns. It’s hard to believe the show opened over a decade ago – The Book of Mormon won 11 Tony Awards in 2011.

Eugene O’Neill Theatre, www.bookofmormonbroadway.com

Chicago © Jeremy Daniel

Chicago

Kander and Ebb’s utterly contemporary-feeling musical has been running for over 26 years. No matter how many times you see Roxie Hart, Velma Kelly and their murderous cohorts sing about what landed them in jail, the show is as fresh and sexy as ever. If you can, try to imagine Joel Grey, the original Mr. Cellophane, when you watch the razzle dazzle. The choreography by Bob Fosse is legendary. You’ll be singing “All That Jazz” when you leave the theater.

Ambassador Theatre, www.chicagothemusical.com

Funny Girl © Matthew Murphy

Funny Girl

No, it’s not Barbra Streisand on stage in this beloved musical. Tony-nominated actress Lea Michele is perfectly cast as Fanny Brice, marking a return of Funny Girl to Broadway after its debut 60 years ago. The story is an uplifting one: Fanny Brice, a girl from the Lower East Side, dreams of life on the stage and succeeds. Tovah Feldshuh plays Fanny’s supportive mother. The book is legendary Broadway, newly revised by Harvey Fierstein. Closes September 3.

August Wilson Theatre, www.funnygirlonbroadway.com

Hadestown with Lillias White © Matthew Murphy

Hadestown

You might want to brush up on your Greek mythology before seeing Hadestown. Winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Musical, the unusual, haunting musical by Anaïs Mitchell tells the story of two couples with disparate love themes. Hades rules the underworld from which Persephone escapes each spring to bring forth flowers above. Orpheus is a songwriter in search of the perfect tune who meets Eurydice, a soul lost in other ways. On-stage musicians present a rollicking New Orleans type score perfect for narrator Hermes, currently played by Tony Award winner Lillias White.

Walter Kerr Theatre, www.hadestown.com

Hamilton © Joan Marcus

Hamilton

The show that shattered all records and changed theatrical history is as glorious as ever. Rap, hip hop, ballads, deceit and ambition all mix together in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical about the life of Alexander Hamilton. If you didn’t know much about Hamilton and his relationship with Aaron Burr before this play arrived on Broadway or streamed on the Disney Channel, you certainly will by the end of this show. Creative staging, stunning costumes and rapid-fire lyrics add to the show’s brilliance. Hamilton won the 2016 Tony Award for Best Musical and has been playing to packed houses ever since.

Richard Rodgers Theatre, www.hamiltononbroadway.com

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child © Matthew Murphy

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

The wizardry is back, now in one extended performance, filled with special effects you might have thought possible only in film. In this latest chapter of E. K. Rowland’s Harry Potter series, your favorite characters have grown up with their own children to worry about. The rest of the Hogwarts entourage is there, too, along with some new characters. See it twice – once from an orchestra seat and once from the mezzanine where you’ll be gifted with a different view of the spectacular set changes and magic. The play won the 2018 Tony Award for Best Play and continues to delight children of all ages into its fifth year.

Lyric Theatre, www.harrypotteronstage.com/us.com

Kimberly Akimbo © Joan Marcus

Kimberly Akimbo

A touching, bittersweet story about a teenager with a rare ailment, Kimberly Akimbo tells a tale of teen angst mixed with an unusual premise: Kimberly ages at an accelerated pace and has a limited time to live. Played by Victoria Clark who appears as an “elderly” teenager through brilliant acting and vocals, Kimberly encounters a bevy of issues from making friends to family relations. The rest of the cast is hilarious – from her quirky pregnant mother to the very “Jersey” aunt fixated on committing mischief which sometimes lands her in jail. Despite all, happiness prevails.

Booth Theatre, www.kimberlyakimbothemusical.com

Leopoldstadt © Joan Marcus

Leopoldstadt

Originally produced in London, Tom Stoppard’s semi-autobiographical story follows one extended family from pre-Nazi, lavish life in the Leopoldstadt quarter in Vienna in 1899 through the traumas of the holocaust and the Diaspora that follows. The many characters flow in and out, developing and growing through the 50-year span of the drama’s three sections. The 19th play by Stoppard on Broadway, this Olivier Award winner is a masterpiece of theater. Closing July 2.

Longacre Theatre, www.leopoldstadtplay.com

The Lion King © Brinkhoff Mogenburg

The Lion King

The second of Disney’s gargantuan Broadway hits currently running, The Lion King is a visually striking depiction of the story of the animals living in Pride Land. The characters – Simba, Nala, Timon and Pumba — are familiar from the animated movie of the same name. The show’s standout “Circle of Life” song and procession will stay with you long after you’ve left the theatre. Entering its 26th year, The Lion King is a musical you should see more than once. Opened in 1997, The Lion King was the winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1998.

Minskoff Theatre, www.lionking.com

MJ © Matthew Murphy

MJ

Popular among Michael Jackson fans worldwide, MJ follows the career of the “King of Pop” while focusing on the making of Jackson’s “Dangerous World” tour. The dancing is spectacular and the songs from the Jackson Five through Michael Jackson’s solo days will have you rocking in your seat. Myles Frost, the first actor to play Michael Jackson in the play won the 2022 Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical.

Neil Simon Theatre, www.MJTheMusical.com

Moulin Rouge © Matthew Murphy

Moulin Rouge

An over-the-top, musical interpretation of Baz Luhrmann’s film about decadent literary and nightclub life in Paris, Moulin Rouge is a wondrous romp through the Bohemian lifestyles of its characters. Replete with more than 70 songs that will test your knowledge of pop music, the show rocks with dance, costuming, and superb staging in both the Moulin Rouge and the city beyond. There’s a reason Moulin Rouge won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 2020. See it again and again.

Al Hirschfeld Theatre, www.moulinrougemusical.com

Parade © Joan Marcus

Parade

Parade moves to Broadway after last year’s successful run at City Center. The story about a newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in the hills of Georgia turns into a test of faith, humanity, justice and devotion when Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime. Starring Ben Platt. Closes August 6.

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, www.paradebroadway.com

The Phantom of the Opera © Matthew Murphy

The Phantom of the Opera

No matter if you’ve been mesmerized by this musical once or five times, the chandelier scene will still have you gasping out loud. A thriller about an opera singer and the masked phantom who yearns to be with her, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musically rich Phantom of the Opera has been a perennial favorite since 1988. After several extensions due to popular demand, this is your last chance to see the 1988 Tony winner for Best Musical — it closes April 16.

Majestic Theatre, www.thephantomoftheopera.com

Pictures from Home © Julieta Cervantes

Pictures From Home

Broadway powerhouses Nathan Lane, Danny Burstein and Zoë Wanamaker star in this three-person based on a visual memoir by photographer Larry Sultan. Lane’s son, played by Burstein, documents the life of his parents through ongoing photographic visits much to the annoyance of his curmudgeonly dad. The issues of growing older, evinced by all characters, with doubts and delusions about self-importance or lack of confidence present a haunting portrait of family life and independence. Closes April 30.

Studio 54, www.picturesfromhomebroadway.com

Six © Joan Marcus

Six

Six is a rocking musical-concert telling the stories of the six wives of Henry VIII. The transplant from the West End will have you repeating the show’s “divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived” chorus over and over again. Which glitter-studded wife deserved to be the king’s favorite? You’ll have to judge yourself. The pop musical is the 2022 winner of the Tony for the Best Original Score Written for the Theatre.

Brooks Atkinson Theatre, www.SIXonBroadway.com

Some Like It Hot © Marc J Franklin

Some Like It Hot

Do you remember Tony Randall, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe in the award-winning movie of the same name? No matter if you don’t. This is a must-see, very current update of the film about two musicians witness to a mob hit in gangster-infested Chicago. Forced to take on a disguises as females to join an all-girl band led by the feisty Sweet Sue, Joe/Josephine and Jerry/Daphne travel cross-country where confusion reigns supreme as unexpected love interests intrude. Christian Borle J. Harrison Ghee are perfect comic foils who tap dance and sing their way through this madcap tale. Adrianna Hicks is superb as Sugar. With sets as vibrant and flawless as the choreography, this musical is a sure-bet for a Tony Award.

Shubert Theatre, https://somelikeithotmusical.com

Wicked © Joan Marcus

Wicked

Who doesn’t love the Wizard of Oz? Wicked takes another look at the Man Behind the Curtain story in a prequel about two school chums who grow up to be Glinda the Good Witch and gloriously green Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. It’s a good time to see the show again and refresh your memory – another retelling of the original story; The Wiz is scheduled for the yellow brick road early next year.

Gershwin Theatre, www.wickedthemusical.com

Coming Soon

March

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street © Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

The newest version of beloved Stephen Sondheim musical about the “demon barber of Fleet Street” stars Josh Groban and Annaleigh Ashford.

Lunt-Fontanne Theatrehttps://sweeneytoddbroadway.com

Life of PI © Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Life of Pi

Originally from the West End and based on the beloved book (and movie) by Yann Martel, the Olivier Award-winning story of survival tells the saga of a cargo ship sinking in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with a boy named Pi left stranded with a tiger.

Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, www.lifeofpibway.com

April

Shucked © Emilio Madrid

Shucked

What do you get when you pair a semi-neurotic, New York comedy writer with two music superstars from Nashville? A hilarious and audacious farm-to-fable musical about the one thing Americans everywhere can’t get enough of: corn.

Nederlander Theatre,www.shuckedmusical.com

CAMELOT © Joan Marcus

CAMELOT

Lincoln Center’s updated take on the beloved Lerner & Lowe classic features your favorite characters, King Arthur, Queen Guenevere and Sir Lancelot. Who will ever forget, “Camelot” or “If Ever I Would Leave You?” If you’re not familiar with them, now’s your chance. Philippa Soo plays Guenevere.

Vivian Beaumont Theater, https://www.lct.org/shows/camelot/

Peter Pan Goes Wrong © Jeremy Daniel

Peter Pan Goes Wrong

The Original Mischief Company arrives for 16 ½ weeks to show off what happens when they try to produce a version of the Wendy and Peter story. From the creators of The Play That Goes Wrong, the show is filled with acrobatics, nonsense, and farce.

Ethel Barrymore Theatre, www.pangoeswrongbway.com

Fat Ham © Joan Marcus

Fat Ham

The Pulitzer Prize winning drama about Black masculinity and queerness is based loosely on Hamlet. Through June 25.

American Airlines Theatre, www.fathambroadway.com

Courtesy The Thanksgiving Play

The Thanksgiving Play

When a troupe of well-meaning theater artists attempt to put on a culturally sensitive Thanksgiving school pageant, things get messy. The Thanksgiving Play skewers everything right, wrong and woke in America.

Helen Hayes Theatre,www.2st.com

New York New York © Paul Kohlnik

New York, New York

Set in 1946, New York, New York follows the lives of artists and dreamers in a resurgent New York, set to a playlist of new songs and big band classics. Music and lyrics by the talented team of Kander and Ebb, with additional lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

St. James Theatre, www.newyorknewyorkbroadway.com

Good Night, Oscar © Liz Lauren

Good Night, Oscar

Jack Paar hosts shockingly funny character actor and pianist Oscar Levant on The Tonight Show. What transpires will provide late-night show fodder for generations to come. The limited engagement stars Sean Hayes through August 27.

Belasco Theatre,www.goodnightoscar.com

Prima Facie - Jodie Comer © Helen-Murray

Prima Facie

The legal drama export from the West End with themes of sexual violence stars Jodie Comer as a defense attorney.

Golden Theatre, https://primafacieplay.com/broadway/

June

Once Upon a One More Time © Emilio Madrid

Once Upon a One More Time

An original musical featuring Britney Spears’ anthems “Oops I Did It Again,” “Toxic” and more. The story “flips the script” on favorite fairytale icons Cinderella, Snow White, Little Mermaid who meet up for their book club.

Marquis Theatre, https://onemoretimemusical.com

July

Here Lies Love

Immersive musical Here Lies Love has guests following actors and dancing through an innovative stage set-up. Based on the rise and fall of Imelda Marcos and the People Power Revolution of the Philippines, Here Lies Love features music by Grammy/Oscar/Tony winner David Byrne and Grammy winner Fatboy Slim. The musical was originally staged at the Public Theater in 2013.

Broadway Theatre, www.herelieslovebroadway.com

TBD

Back to the Future Roger Bart as Doc Brown © Sean Ebsworth Barnes in London production

Back to the Future: The Musical

Playing concurrently in London, Back to the Future: The Musical is the theatrical version of the classic Michael J. Fox film. Teenager Marty McFly is sent back to 1955 in a DeLorean transformed into a time machine by his friend Doc Brown. To return to the present (or the future as it were), Marty must make sure his teenaged parents fall in love.

Winter Garden Theatre, www.backtothefuturemusical.com/newyork.com

Courtesy Summer, 1976

Summer, 1976

Emmy-winner Laura Linney stars in this story of two women living in the time of the Bicentennial. One is an artist and single mother, the other is a housewife with visions of independence. Written by David Auburn, winner of the Pulitzer Prize for the play Proof.

Samuel J. Friedman Theatre, https://www.manhattantheatreclub.com

Merrily We Roll Along

A revival of Stephen Sondheim’s celebrated musical starring Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and Lindsay Mendez.

Hudson Theatre

Closing This Month: A Dozen Broadway Plays and Musicals

Broadway has come back in a big way, with many openings, some lasting and some with very limited or shortened runs. A new crop of shows is scheduled for March, but, in the meantime, here are the ones that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. They’ll be closing some time in January.

Almost Famous © Matt Murphy

Almost Famous – Did you love Cameron Crowe’s 2000 film about a would-be reporter coming-of-age in the world of rock musicians and rock groupies (here called Band Aids)? The play is pure fun and does a pretty good job of replicating the roles in the movie. It’s a shame that it’s closing – there’s some great talent here, with quite a few of the players making their Broadway debuts. Make yourself look cool (to paraphrase a key line in the play and the movie)and grab tickets while you can. Happily for us, the original Broadway cast recording with music and lyrics by Tom Kitt will be released on March 17. Closing January  8, Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre .

Beetlejuice Alex Brightman and Company © Matthew Murphy

Beetlejuice – Another theatrical adaptation of a beloved film dating from 1988, “Beetlejuice” has been a play with multiple lives, closing during the pandemic and being kicked out of its theatrical home. Then, led by strange teenager Lydia Deetz and demonic Beetlejuice, it rose from the dead, if you will, to a second Broadway theater. Alex Brightman is pretty darn incredible, especially in the opening scene. It’s a shame that he suffered a concussion during the last week of the show’s run and missed numerous performances. There’s still a tiny bit of time to see him in the lead role from Tim Burton’s wonderful movie before the play is lowered into the ground for good. You’ll be dancing to “Day-O” as you leave the theater. Closing January 8, Marquis Theatre.

Into the Woods © Matt Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Into the Woods – Those of us who saw this remarkable show, stripped-down and star-studded, at New York City Center Encores! recognized the power it had.  It was no surprise that, with its amazing cast, it moved to Broadway. There, with several cast changes, it ate up the stage with Stephen Sondheim’s fabulous music and lyrics and James Lapine’s mash-up of three Brothers Grimm fairytales,” Little Red Riding Hood,” “Rapunzel” and “Jack and the Beanstalk.” If you miss this limited run, and you shouldn’t, you can watch Meryl Streep’s tantalizing turn as the Witch in the 2014 movie. Closing January 8, St. James Theatre.

The Roundabout Theatre Company's 1776 © Joan Marcus

1776 – A beauty of a musical, first produced in 1969  and revived by the Roundabout Theatre Company in 1997, “1776” received an uneven makeover in 2022, reversing genders and including a multiracial transgender, non-binary, and female cast. The huge Roundabout production, which doesn’t quite fit the stage at the American Airlines Theater, seems shrill and disjointed compared to its predecessors. Nonetheless, if you like American history and enjoy the wonderful tunes of Sherman Edwards, a history-teacher-turned-songwriter, you have just a little time to see “1776.” Frankly, I’d prefer that you listen to the original cast album than the over-the-top renditions in this show. I’m glad I saw this, but some things are better left untouched. In this case, I have to ask, “Why?” Closing January 8, American Airlines Theatre.

A Strange Loop © Marc J Franklin

A Strange Loop – Pulitzer Prize winner, Michael R. Jackson’s “A Strange Loop” engendered mixed reactions from those who saw it. Some loved it, some hated it. Some were irritated by it. The Tony winner for Best Musical is a story about a wannabe playwright named Usher currently serving as an usher. The play that this young, gay Black man is writing explains the “loop” title of the show. It’s about a young, gay Black man who is a theater writer. Bawdy, racy scenes add a strange vibe to what could have been a more provocative tale of personal development. Maybe just get the Broadway cast recording instead. Closing January 15, Lyceum Theatre.

Death of a Salesman © Joan Marcus

Death of a Salesman – It seems that every few years someone decides to revive Arthur Miller’s American tragedy about the American Dream. This time, the Loman family is African American and the story is one of both equality and opportunity. It’s still a long show, lasting approximately three hours, but it’s one where the time factor is insignificant. I wish this play were staying longer (it’s a limited engagement) – the cast is superb (Wendell Pierce, Sharon D. Clarke, André De Shields) and the play deserves to be seen or re-seen. Closing January 15, Hudson Theatre.

Courtesy Mike Birbiglia

Mike Birbiglia: The Old Man & The Pool – Storyteller Mike Birbiglia came to prominence with his off-Broadway show, “Sleepwalk with Me” in 2008. Since then, he has performed various autobiographical comedies off-Broadway as full performances or as tryouts for a new show, as he did with “The Old Man & The Pool.” If you missed it at the Cherry Lane Theater in 2019, now is a good time to laugh along with Mike as he describes his experiences as a middle-aged man during the final weeks of his Broadway run. Closing January 15, Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center.

The Music Man Hugh Jackman & Sutton Foster © Julieta Cervantes

The Music Man –  Covid-plagued “The Music Man” was a highly anticipated revival of the beloved 1957 show starring Robert Preston as Professor Harold Hill. With star power provided by Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster, Meredith Wilson’s musical was good, if not amazing. But you still enjoy the songs and the old-time warmth. And who doesn’t love watching Jackman and Foster ham it up in the wonderful “Marian the Librarian” scene? You have one more week to see this pair show off their chemistry and singing and dancing. Closing January 15, Winter Garden Theatre.

Ohio State Murders © Richard Termine

Ohio State Murders – You don’t have much time to see Audra McDonald in her tour de force performance  as a writer and lecturer coming to terms with the murders of her twin daughters. The play is told as a story by McDonald and also stars Bryce Pinkham as the professor turned mentor, friend and lover. Closing January 15, James Earl Jones Theatre.

Topdog/Underdog © Marc J Franklin

Topdog/Underdog – The Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, originally performed on Broadway in 2002, has returned for a limited engagement. The story about sibling rivalry and obsession focuses on Lincoln and Booth, two brothers eerily named by their father as a joke about the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Closing January 15, Golden Theatre.

The Collaboration © Jeremy Daniel

The Collaboration – This short-lived Manhattan Theatre Club production depicts the 1984 collaboration between Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat on a modern art exhibition. Closing January 29, Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.

The Piano Lesson Samuel L. Jackson & Ray Fisher © Julieta Cervantes

The Piano Lesson – A stunning revival of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, originally staged in 1990, “The Piano Lesson” is the fourth play in Wilson’s ”The Pittsburgh Cycle.” Playing a pivotal role in the story of family relations, the family-heirloom piano becomes a living memory of times past and present issues. Don’t miss it – with Samuel L. Jackson, Danielle Brooks and John David Washington, this powerful play is one that you will remember for a long time. Closing January 29, Barrymore Theatre

How to Celebrate a Vaccinated, In-Person Thanksgiving This Year

We have a lot to be grateful for this year – vaccines allowing family get-togethers in person, the promise of maskless travel in the future, travel anywhere (soon), and more. In addition to having a traditional Thanksgiving dinner as a way to celebrate, here are some ways to enjoy this special weekend holiday.

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park © Angelito Jusay

Shop, Shop, Shop

No, I’m not talking about that maniacal event known as Black Thursday nor its diabolical cousin Cyber Monday. I want you, instead, to visit the magical outdoor holiday markets that are springing up all over New York City. There you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts, handicrafts and holiday treats to warm the spirit, all while supporting the small businesses that give character to the Big Apple. It’s worth a trip to NYC to cover off your shopping needs. While you’re there, take in a play or musical on Broadway. Broadway’s back with 39 or more shows open now for your enjoyment.

You can get a head start on your holiday shopping at these four crowd favorites:

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park

Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park © Angelito Jusay

Shop, skate and refresh at this market curated by UrbanSpace. Already in full swing, the conveniently located market welcomes visitors of all ages. Skating is free (although you’ll need to bring your own skates or rent ones there) so you can save up to buy your gifts and hot chocolate instead.

Grand Central Holiday Fair

Courtesy Grand Central Terminal

Convenient for commuters, the booths in Vanderbilt Hall at Grand Central Terminal will again sell a mix of gift items, beginning November 15.

Union Square Holiday Market

Courtesy Union Square Holiday Market

Opening November 18 but closed on Thanksgiving Day, the market is filled with stalls selling adorable clothing, handmade candles, one-of-a-kind jewelry and more.

Grand Holiday Bazaar

Courtesy Grand Holiday Bazaar

The outdoor flea market at West 77th Street and Columbus Avenue gets decked out in its holiday finery starting November 24. Open only on Sundays, the market is the granddaddy of the city’s fleas and also features drinks and treats to keep you warm while you shop.

Hit the Parade Route

Courtesy Macy's

New York City’s annual Halloween Parade set the tone for welcoming floats and revelers back to the streets of the city after a year in absentia. Equally missing last year (except for the participants in the parade itself), Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade returns with a flourish this year. You can prepare for it by watching the Balloon Inflation by the American Museum of Natural History on Central Park West on November 24 and then make the decision whether to attend the parade in person on Thanksgiving or watch on TV in the cozy warmth of your home.

To view the balloons as they come to life, stop by the inflation fete between the hours of 12 Noon and 6pm in the vicinity of West 72nd Street and Columbus Avenue for check-in. Then head to 77th street where the event happens. Dress warmly, as the lines can be quite long, and this year you’ll need to show ID’s and proof of vaccination.

The 95th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade itself happens on November 25 from 9am-noon. You can watch the floats, bands and performances at home if you’re not in NYC.  Click here for full details.

Bone Up on Your Mixology Savvy (or Cooking)

Courtesy Sur La Table

Are you a budding mixologist? It’s time to perfect your skills for Thanksgiving and for the holiday season to come. In preparation for your in-person parties, Sur La Table invites you to a virtual class to teach you libation creations that will wow as well as refresh. You’ll learn to make a holiday-inspired Negroni, a seasonal Holiday Punch and a fruity-peppery shrub that’s certain to impress. You’ll receive all the ingredients you need prior to the class you’ll be sampling as you go. How fun is that!

If you’d prefer to show off your cooking prowess, they also offer a full range of food classes to complement your liquid talents.

Learn Candy Crafting

Courtesy Cricket’s Candy Creations

Cricket’s Candy Creations makes sure that kids are well entertained on Thanksgiving weekend. Also worthy of a trip to Manhattan, the TriBeCa craft studio invites all ages to learn how to make inventive and sometimes crazy candy creations. Some of the fun activities include making your own delicious edible slime at the Slime Studio, creating candy versions of sushi and hamburgers in the Candy Kitchen or fingerpainting your way to edible creations at the Lickable Fingerpaint Gallery.

Get Vaccinated, Enjoy the Benefits of Free Stuff and Privileged Entry

New York City has gone through lots of turmoil this year. Being among the first cities to experience the shock of shutdown, the extreme loss of life and livelihood and the incredible loneliness that ensued, New York City deserves the perks that come with surviving the pandemic and getting vaccinated. New York City is a city that has made Dr. Fauci proud with a resilience that defines the character of its residents.

Let’s continue being smart and safe, for everyone’s sake. The incentives for being vaccinated against COVID-19 keep growing from getting free tickets to special seating at venues to unlimited entry into certain prime gatherings. If you haven’t gotten your shot yet, these should motivate you to roll up your sleeves.

Courtesy New York Yankees

Yankee Stadium

Get a shot – get a pair of tickets. That’s the gist of the program here. Yankee Stadium has been a Covid vaccination site for quite a while. Now that the baseball season is in full swing (no pun intended), here’s another reason to get your shot: a pair of prime Yankees tickets.

Courtesy Yankee Stadium

For everyone who gets a shot, you’ll receive seats at a game to see the Bronx Bombers hopefully demolish their rivals. That certainly makes the trip to the Bronx a worthwhile endeavor. It’s a one shot, one and done situation.

Broadway and The Performing Arts

“Springsteen on Broadway” © Meryl Pearlstein

More and more, venues are requiring proof of vaccination for entry. While Broadway hasn’t set their regulations for the full opening in September, many pop-ups, concert houses and smaller theaters that are currently in operation are offering tickets only to those who have been vaccinated. Some of the favorites this summer include Bruce Springsteen’s reprise of his sold-out one-man show.

Immersive Van Gogh © Meryl Pearlstein

Small museums and event spaces are similarly requiring you to be vaccinated in order to attend. Don’t limit yourself – you won’t want to miss these extraordinary events, and you won’t have to wear a mask. Watch for mobile vaccination trucks at venues such as these, too – Immersive Van Gogh at Pier 36, The Museum of the City of New York and others offer this benefit from time to time. You’ll be doing yourself and your neighbors a good deed and the reward is entry into the sometimes sold-out experiences.

Special Seating and Showing Proof of Vaccination

© Meryl Pearstein

The Mets and the Yankees were two early adopters of venues having separate seating for vaccinated and non-vaccinated people. Preferred seating goes to those who have been vaccinated and you’ll sit only among people who have also gotten the protection against the virus. Masks are not required in these areas. You’ll need to check MLB.com for specific regulations for any of the American League and National League teams.

Courtesy Madison Square Garden - www.msg.com

At Madison Square Garden, some shows require full vaccination to attend like the upcoming Eagles shows in August. The tickets specify “vaccinated-only seating.” City Winery, in its new home on the Hudson River, requires proof of vaccination to enter as well – be prepared for long lines to enter.

Concerts and Shows to See This Winter

We’re still in a virtual pause. Theaters are still closed, but there’s talk of outdoor concerts resuming this summer and Broadway theaters re-opening by the fall. In the meantime, there’s plenty to fill out your arts card from your computer.

CONCERTS

Emanuel Ax - New York Philharmonic String Quartet Photo: 92nd Street Y

92ND STREET Y

Winter/Spring Streaming Music Season

New York Philharmonic String Quartet and Emanuel Ax, piano

February 1 – 7:30pm

The first of 13 concerts in the season, world-renowned pianist Emanuel Ax joins friends and longtime collaborators the New York Philharmonic String Quartet on February 1. The Quartet takes the stage in Beethoven’s F-Minor Quartet, “Serioso,” before Ax joins for Dvořák’s exuberant Piano Quintet No. 2 in A Major. All concerts in the program are webcast premieres.

For the Y’s calendar of music events, both classical and popular, visit here.

THE TOWN HALL

“Preformances”

Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, The Town Hall continues its programming in a different format, offering Preformances concerts online, some free and others for a small ticket fee, featuring noted singers and musicians.

The ARK Trio Photo: The Town Hall

January 21

Allison Charney and the Ark Trio

The ARK Trio joins series host, soprano Allison Charney, discussing and performing works by composers Michael Ching and Kim D. Sherman who also appear to talk about their compositions.

This is a free livestream event. Registration is required to receive a personal link.

Mariza - Photo Courtesy of Ticketmaster

January 29

Mariza Sings Amalia

Portuguese singer Mariza celebrates the twentieth anniversary of her career and the centenary of the late Queen of Fado, Amália Rodrigues.

Judy Collins - Photo Courtesy of Ticketmaster

February 12

Judy Collins

Judy Collins performs a recreation of her 1964 concert hall debut at The Town Hall with music by Bob Dylan, Tom Paxton and Billy Ed Wheeler among others.

MUSIC DOCUMENTARIES

Carole King - (c) Tim Maggiani

BROADWAY ON DEMAND

“Carole King: Natural Woman”

Beginning January 29

If you loved Beautiful, you won’t want to miss this documentary celebration of the life of Carole King. Carole King: Natural Woman tracks King’s life and career from 1960’s New York to the music mecca of 70’s Los Angeles through the present. Performances, interviews, home movies and photos are featured.

For their full library of livestream programming, visit BroadwayOnDemand.com.

Please Call Home: The Big House Years -- Exclusive Allman Brothers Film – Photo Courtesy of: Tarrytown Music Hall

THE TARRYTOWN MUSIC HALL

“Please Call Home: The Big House Years” — Exclusive Allman Brothers Film & Live Q&A

January 23 – link available for 48 hours

Livestreamed by The Tarrytown Music Hall, Please Call Home showcases the early days of the Allman Brothers Band. The film is followed up by a live Q&A moderated by the Allman Brother Band Museum board member Mark Franzoso.

THEATER

Gloria - Photo by Carol Rosegg

THE VINEYARD THEATRE

“Gloria”

January 19-24

Presented as a benefit for the Vineyard Theater, the cast reading of Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins’ funny and powerful play Gloria follows an ambitious group of editorial assistants at a notorious Manhattan magazine, each of whom hopes for an editorial career and a book deal before he or she turns 30. The play moves from ordinary to extraordinary, chronicling the changing lives of each of the protagonists.

Encores! - Photo Courtesy of New York City Center

NEW YORK CITY CENTER

“Encores! Inside the Revival”

Home of the beloved Encores! musical theater series, now on pause, City Center has created programs to tide you over until the next season. With Encores! Inside the Revival, you’ll see snippets and behind-the-scenes conversations and performances for each upcoming show.

Just released, The Tap Dance Kid is a dance and music riot featuring Dulé Hill (The West Wing). The 1983 Tony-nominated musical is currently being revived for new audiences through City Center’s commitment to producing musicals that deserve renewed attention. The video is a look into the creative process of the future show and features Tony-award winning director Kenny Leon (A Raisin the Sun), book adaptor Lydia Diamond, choreographer Jared Grimes and cast member from the original Broadway production Dulé Hill. The show is especially timely with a storyline about America as a place for everyone where every kid can and should dream.

Also available for viewing are The Life with Billy Porter, Love Life with Victoria Clark, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Into the Woods.

ONGOING

Stars in the House

STARS IN THE HOUSE

Hosted by Sirius XM’s Seth Rudetsky and James Wesley

Streamed live Tuesday-Saturday at 8pm, Stars in the House has raised more than $650,000 in this series of programs begun March 2020 in support of The Actors Fund. Programming changes nightly ranging from a full hour with stars from Broadway productions, to reunions of casts from TV shows such as Desperate Houses and the recent show featuring the cast of Grey’s Anatomy. Individual performers are also featured.

In addition to Broadway and broadcast topics, Stars in the House offers information pertaining to the pandemic and to ways to support the Broadway community. All shows are archived online.

Photo Courtesy of Broadway HD

BROADWAY HD

Pippin, 42nd Street, Oklahoma! and much more

Missing Broadway? Broadway HD is as close as you can get to it right now. With a yearly or monthly subscription, you’ll have access to their full library of recorded Broadway productions and more. It’s a treat if you’re longing for a musical fix. You can watch at your leisure and as many times as you’d like. Fan favorites are there as well as oldies that are pure magic. With Broadway likely not to return before next fall, you’ll be grateful to Broadway HD. It also makes the perfect gift for theater lovers. A sampling of shows available to watch include Kinky Boots, Jersey Boys, Forever Plaid, Godspell, She Loves Me, Into the Woods and Show Boat.

Celebrate Stephen Sondheim’s 90th Birthday with a Musical Tribute Sunday Night

The Broadway community comes together, separately, to celebrate Stephen Sondheim’s 90th birthday as only the theater community could do.  Giving of themselves to raise money for ASTEP, a galaxy of stars will bring their talents to the musical library of Sondheim’s many songs on Sunday, May 3. The tribute will be broadcast at 8pm on www.Broadway.com or the Broadway.com YouTube channel.

The all-star special online concert, “Take Me To The World: A Sondheim 90th Birthday Celebration,” is a free show, hosted by Raúl Esparza, a true Sondheim fan who wowed audiences with his portrayal of Bobby in the 2006 revival of Sondheim’s Tony-award winning Company. The scheduling coincides with the date of the 50th anniversary of the opening night of Sondheim’s original production of Company on Broadway on April 26, 1970. A new production of Company with groundbreaking role reversals was set to open this spring. With the opening date of Broadway still to be determined, the updated Company remains on hold.

Courtesy of Broadway.com

The show’s stars represent some of the greatest talents of musical theater, many of whom have appeared in Sondheim musicals.

Annaleigh Ashford, Laura Benanti, Melissa Errico, Beanie Feldstein, Josh Groban, Jake Gyllenhaal, Neil Patrick Harris, Judy Kuhn, Linda Lavin, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Ben Platt, Randy Rainbow, Lea Salonga, Meryl Streep, Bernadette Peters, Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, Mandy Patinkin, Christine Baranski, Donna Murphy, Kristin Chenoweth, Sutton Foster, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Kelli O’Hara, Aaron Tveit, Maria Friedman, Iain Armitage, Katrina Lenk, Michael Cerveris, Brandon Uranowitz, Stephen Schwartz, Elizabeth Stanley, Chip Zien, Alexander Gemignani and Ann Harada will perform songs of inspiration from the Sondheim catalog.

There will also be special appearances by Victor Garber, Joanna GleasonNathan Lane and Steven Spielberg.

Writer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim is revered for the many musicals that he brought to Broadway. Highlights of his prolific work include Company, Sweeney Todd, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Follies, A Little Night Music, Gypsy, West Side Story, Sunday in the Park with George, Merrily We Roll Along, Into the Woods, Assassins, Passion, Anyone Can Whistle and Road Show.

This special online event is a fundraiser for ASTEP (Artists Striving to End Poverty), the organization conceived by Broadway Musical Director Mary-Mitchell Campbell and Juilliard students to transform the lives of youth using the most powerful tool they had: their art. Today, ASTEP connects performing and visual artists with youth from underserved communities in the U.S. and around the world to awaken their imaginations, foster critical thinking, and help them break the cycle of poverty.

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