This month, there seem to be more musicals off-Broadway than I remember in previous years. Not being a musical theatre lover, I have good news — some of them are really wonderful.
I’ve already seen David Greig’s “The Strange Undoing of Prudentia Hart” in an Edinburgh pub. The pub and show are now being recreated at the
McKittrick Hotel. It’s a joyous celebration of Scottish music and folktales — perfect for the season with a pint, for accompaniment.
Run to The Atlantic for “The Band’s Visit,” an adaptation of the film by the same name. Artfully directed by David Cromer, it contains the hopeful message of Israeli/Egyptian understanding — on a revolving stage.
Of course, “Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812” continues to blaze brightly through the Broadway firmament, and should have a very long life indeed.
Coming back to Earth, I’m looking forward to “The Present” which comes from Sydney with the ever mesmerizing Cate Blanchett. This update of Chekhov’s “Platonov” will run at The Barrymore and promises to be a fine Christmas gift for oneself, or someone else if you’re feeling generous!
Manhattan Theatre Club will be reviving August Wilson’s first play, “Jitney,” his only not yet seen on Broadway. Although Second Stage’s smaller production was sixteen years ago, it’s etched in my mind — a brilliant piece to be seen again.
Looking ahead to the New Year, grab these tickets now: Martin McDonagh’s “The Beauty Queen of Leenane” with the extraordinary Marie Mullins, at BAM.
Coming to New York Theatre Workshop at the end of Januarywill be Geoff Sobelle’s “The Object Lesson,” which won my Edinburgh Award in 2014. Ben Brantley was similarly entranced when he reviewed its previous, too short run at BAM. Don’tmiss this!
Finally, right next door to “The Object Lesson” will be my current Best of Edinburgh Award winner “Life According to Saki” at the 4th Street Theatre from February 8th. Please join me, the playwright and cast for the opening matinee and party on Sunday, February 12th. It will be a benefit performance — a limited number of $100 tax-deductible tickets are available at carol@BestofEdinburgh.org. Please do come!
Best wishes for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. I do hope theatre tickets will be in everyone’s stocking.
Carol Tambor publishes a monthly newsletter, which announces worthy shows coming to New York, along with occasional information about London theatre and, of course, the Edinburgh Fringe.