Whenever I think of a trip to New York City, whether for a vacation or just a short one- or two-day visit, I can’t help but think of Broadway and the delightful shows that await in these sacred halls of entertainment delight. Broadway is the essence of New York for me.
It can, in turn, be bawdy, brawling, loud, rowdy, soft, romantic, comedic, and rip-roaringly hilarious. Broadway offers something for everyone seeking their perfect fit.
The problem with Broadway is that there are so many wonderful shows to attend and such limited time (for most of us) in which to see them. I don’t even think those who reside in New York City have enough time to fully appreciate the artistic treasure trove that is exemplified within this wonderful city that never stops.
The verity of the matter is that to properly enjoy all the theatrical offerings available to you, you’d almost have to never sleep yourself.
Musicals
It is important to remember that not all shows are always available. Before you get excited, make sure the show you want to see is scheduled for your visit. In addition, musicals are among my preferred forms of Broadway entertainment. Chicago the Musical, Frozen, Mean Girls, Forbidden Broadway (this one offers a hilarious ‘spoof’ of Broadway), Jersey Boys, Naked Boys Singing (yes, they are!), Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Wicked, and Mamma Mia!
Comedies
Broadway is renowned for its unconventional approach and its ability to enjoy itself. This sentiment also applies to today’s Broadway theatre. Comedies and musicals on Broadway are not mutually exclusive, so some of the comedy mentioned below will accept some degree of song and dance (well, most likely quite a bit of both, but you will definitely laugh).
Let the comedies begin! I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (seriously, that’s the figure we’re already off to a great start on the road to laughter).
Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead (I believe someone’s been peeking in my kids windows at nightāthis one is actually off-Broadway, but I thought it worth mentioning with such a catchy title and all.) Spamalot.
This single is a rising star with rave reviews by critics and a fairly good attendance rate so buy your tickets early! The Producers and The Little Dog Laughed, both recently released as motion pictures, round up my list of comedies. I hope you’ve seen something here that looks like a clever joke; I know I’ve seen a few!
Drama
While many people associate Broadway with cheerful song and dance, the offerings also possess a profound dramatic flair. Particularly some of the musicals that carry with them profound messages about music, life, and loveāamong these wonderful pictures of Broadway are the following: One of the best Broadway musicals I’ve ever seen is Rent, a blend of La Boheme and modern life, and I’m a huge fan of Phantom. Les MisĆ©rables is another Broadway drama that really needs no introduction.
Grey Gardens is perfect for anyone who fears becoming a cat lady or a spinster: A Chorus Line, Chicago, The Colour Purple, Phantom of the Opera (my personal favourites), and The Vertical Hour (this is a new one; let’s hope it survives).
There are a few family-friendly musicals that plays that bear mentioning; among them are the following: Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera (maybe a little frightening for younger children during certain scenes), Tarzan, The Lion King, Mary Poppins, and Mamma Mia! How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Beauty and the Beast.
You know your child best and what will or won’t scare them or lead to awkward questions; keep that in mind when watching Broadway shows.
Broadway is a groovy way to thoroughly enjoy what New York has to offer its visitors for entertainment.
You can’t see every show that interests you, but you can make time to see the one that appeals to you most, and it will be a great experience for the whole family.
