I am a theatre junkie and cannot wait for my next fix. I had my first "hit" back in 1997 and was instantly addicted. All told I have seen over 70 shows and see no end in sight. Perhaps you will see me on an upcoming episode of "Intervention" but I can tell you right now, I WILL NOT go for treatment.
My love of theatre is really a love of all performing arts and includes, but is certainly not limited to Broadway, off-Broadway, touring shows, concerts and Cirque du Soleil - if you have never experienced one of these shows I urge you to get your hands on a DVD or check it out on-line... it is amazing! I even enjoy High School productions though I often am left with a desire to attend a professional performance afterward and enjoy the experience with seasoned performers.
Because of my experiences I, along with a dear friend, am often asked for recommendations of what to see. I am always excited by this question, not simply because I LOVE to share my opinion but because I really enjoy suggesting something that another person will enjoy or steering them away from something that will leave them disappointed... and yes, sadly I have been left disappointed by more professional performances that I would like to count.
Here are my personal recommendations for anyone who is looking to do something special or wonders if they should spend the money on that show coming to their area.
Top Musicals I will attend over and over if given the opportunity:
1. Les Miserables -- if you are possibly only going to see one show in your life this is the one I'd recommend. There may be another that would better suit your interests but this classic is the perfect example of all that is great about theatre.
2. Wicked - it is definitely worth all the hype!
3. Aida (Elton John & Time Rice's version)
4. Mama Mia - the live version is WAY better than the movie
5. Phantom of the Opera - very romantic and the effects in the live show are pretty amazing
6. Rent - prepare yourself to be shocked and even offended in many ways, but that's the whole point
7. The Lion King - you will be amazed
Best Play - The Screwtape Letters
Best Variety Shows
1. Cirque du Soleil - you can't go wrong with any of them. I refer to them as "Theatrical Circus." They appeal to everyone with the amazing live music and unbelievable acrobatic/strength/gravity defying acts.
2. Stomp - this show travels so GO SEE IT when it comes to a location near you!
Comedy - I would love to see Paula Poundstone. Do you have tickets to share?
So... would you like to be an "Enabler" and go see a show with me?
DALEY RAMBLINGS: Long-winded short stories on the lighter side of life
Where did "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" rate? That's the only show I've seen with you, and the only Broadway show I've been to. What is your opinion of the Sights and Sounds theaters? Kelly and I just saw Joseph and Psalms of David; I've seen a total of 6 of their shows, including Noah, The Miracle of Christmas, and Joseph in the New Millennium Theater, and a Water and Light show, Behold the Lamb, and Psalms of David in the Living Waters theater. I've enjoyed them all. (Well, I slept through much of the light and fountains show...). BTW, we heard that the Living Waters Theater will be closing permanently after this year's Christmas show.
ReplyDeleteAside from the company of the people I saw it with "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" falls into the category of "disappointments". It did not live up to the movie - but how could it, really? There is only one Dick Van Dyke!
ReplyDeleteI have only seen The Miracle of Christmas at Sight & Sound - but thought it was fantastic. I should have put in a "Holiday" category for shows and listed that one. It is WAY better than the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular and I would love to see it draw the same crowds as that one does.
I have heard great things about Sight & Sound and should make a point to get to some of their productions. Which ones would you suggest first?