Broadway makes New York sing - Read it now
Whenever I think of a trip to New York City, be it for a vacation or just a short one or two day visit, I can't help but think of Broadway and the enchanting shows that await me in these sacred entertainment halls. . Broadway is the essence of New York for me. In turn, it can be raunchy, feisty, loud, loud, mellow, romantic, comical, and wildly hilarious. Broadway has it all for those who are willing to find their perfect fit.
The problem with Broadway is that there are so many wonderful shows to see and such a limited time (for most of us) to see them. I don't even think that those who live in New York City have enough time to appreciate the artistic treasure that is represented within this wonderful city that never sleeps. The truth of the matter is that to properly enjoy all the theatrical offerings available to you, you will hardly ever have to sleep.
Musicals
It is important to remember that not all programs are available at all times. Check to see if the show you want to watch will play during your visit before getting your hopes up. Musicals, which are, by the way, my favorite types of Broadway entertainment. Chicago the Musical, Forbidden Broadway (this one offers a fun Broadway 'parody'), Jersey Boys, Naked Boys Singing (yes, they are!), Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Wicked and Mama Mia!
Comedies
Broadway is well known for poking fun at the conventions, as well as letting your hair down and having a good time. The same goes for today's Broadway theater. Comedies and musicals on Broadway are not mutually exclusive, so some of the hilarities mentioned below will have some degree of song and dance (there's probably a bit of both, but you'll definitely laugh). Let the comedies begin! I love you, your perfect, now change (seriously, that's the name we've already had a great start on the laughter trail). Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead (I think someone has been looking out my kids' windows at night - this is actually off Broadway, but I thought it was worth mentioning with such a catchy title and all). Spamalot. This is a rising star with rave reviews from critics and a pretty good attendance rate, so buy your tickets early! The Producers, which was recently made as a movie, and The Little Dog Laughed round out my list of comedies. I hope you saw something here that looks like a good laugh; I know I have seen some!
Drama
While many people think of the happy go lucky song and dance that is often associated with Broadway, there is also a deep dramatic flare to the offerings. Particularly some of the musicals that carry deep messages about music, life and love, among these wonderful Broadway icons are the following: Rent, a very La Boheme musical that meets modern life that is probably one of the best Broadway musicals I've ever seen. I've never seen it and I'm a huge Phantom fan. Les Miserables is another Broadway drama that really needs no introduction, Gray Gardens is perfect for anyone who's afraid of becoming a cat lady or spinster, A Chorus Line, Chicago, The Color Purple, Phantom of the Opera (my personal favorite ) and The Vertical Hora (this is new, hopefully it lasts).
There are a few musicals and plays for the whole family worth mentioning among them: Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera (can be a bit scary for younger children during certain scenes), Tarzan, The Lion King, Mary Poppins , Momma Mia !, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Beauty and the Beast. You are the one who knows your child best and what will scare or not scare her or possibly raise uncomfortable questions, watch most Broadway plays with that in mind.
Broadway is a great way to really enjoy what New York has to offer its visitors for entertainment. While it would hardly be possible to watch each and every show that might attract your attention, it is quite possible that you will take the time to watch the one that most appeals to you and it will be an experience for the whole family.
