<p>cartera
I have to put in a plug for Next to Normal. My D and I saw it when it was still off Broadway and I was blown away. I know the show has been changed somewhat since then (some songs taken out, etc.) but the story is very moving and the songs are incredible. I held my D’s hand and cried in parts. We have the soundtrack in the car and I think I listen Aaron Tveit sing I’m Alive every time I go somewhere. I would go see it again in a heartbeat!</p>
<p>Just putting in some thoughts of mine. Although my personal favorites vary from traditional to edgy MT I am a little tired of theatre “snobs” (not suggesting that any of these posters are) condemning shows that are commercial. I remember when Wicked came out SO strong and many old timers “hated” it…just not sure why. Keep in mind that theaters stay opened by selling seats. Performers make a living by getting cast. If all theatre was designed for the savvy and sophisticated theatre-goer most of our kids and students would starve since jobs would be scarce and hard to find. If you REALLY open your mind you can often find something worthy for some market in most of the shows that open (and unfortunately close.) Think of ALL the really poor scripts and music that never make it anywhere. If it does make it to the big stages chances are that someone is gonna like/love it…Just a thought.</p>
<p>We were in NY in May and went to see Billy Elliot, Hair, and Toxic Avenger(off Broadway)
they were all amazing in their own way, but I we all enjoyed Toxic Avenger the most!
It’s very funny and the songs are catchy, and the actors are all amazing talents.</p>
<p>I don’t mind shows that are commercial successes but may not be the best in terms of other aspects of theater so to speak. They bring in audiences and we all want to see theater in business and actors who are working. I prefer shows with a little more “meat” but don’t mind pure entertainment value or certainly do not mind shows that are selling tickets even if they are not my faves. We call can pick what we want to see.</p>