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 to me.
It can, in turn, be bawdy, brawling, loud, rowdy, soft, romantic, comedic, and rip-roaringly hilarious. Broadway has it for those who are willing to look for 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 in order to properly enjoy all the theatrical offerings available to you, you’d almost have to never sleep yourself.
Musicals
It is important to recall that all shows are not available at all times. Check to determine if the show you wish to see will be playing during your visit before getting your hopes up. Along with the musicals, which are, by the way, my favourite types 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 also applies to today’s Broadway theatre.
Comedies and musicals on Broadway are not mutually exclusive so some of the hilarity 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, Your 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 night—this 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, which was recently realised as a motion picture and The Little Dog Laughed round up my list of comedies. I hope you’ve seen something here that looks like a good joke; I know I’ve seen a few!
Drama
While many people associate Broadway with happy-go-lucky song and dance, there is a deep dramatic flair to the offerings as well. Particularly some of the musicals that carry with them profound messages about music, life, and love—among these wonderful pictures of Broadway are the following: Rent—a very La Boheme-meets-modern-life musical that is probably one of the best Broadway musicals I’ve ever seen and I’m a huge fan of Phantom. Les Miserables is another Broadway drama that really needs no introduction.
Grey Gardens are 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 favourite), and The Vertical Hour (this is a new one; let’s hope it survives).
There are a few family-friendly musicals and 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 recognise your child best and what will or will not be frightening for them or possibly lead to uncomfortable questions for you; view most Broadway plays with that in mind.
Broadway is a groovy way to really enjoy what New York has to offer its visitors for entertainment.
While it would barely be possible to see each and every show that might attract your attention, it is quite possible to make the time to view the one that is most appealing to you, and it will be quite an experience for the entire family.
