Only in NYC will you meet your next roommate on a park bench

A review by Benjamin Nockles

Friends, by Peter L. Levy, opens on a park bench in Central Park. 

Though it may sound trite, it is still the perfect setting for – you guessed it – the introduction of two perfect strangers, in this case, an elderly man and woman. But if you’re already writing this one off for fear that at the opening of the first act, you won’t be able to stifle a groan of disapproval for such a hackneyed premise, at least know that the actors are well-aware of what they are up against and counter with a surprising and unrelenting stream of positive energy. 

Admittedly, this energy comes at the price of seeming a bit forced, but any sense of artificiality is easily forgiven (though not forgotten) once the undeniable charm of this adorable, elderly duo takes over.

Max is a widower, left to sleep on park benches after outliving his retirement fund and surviving on what little his remaining social security and pension can provide. Ruth is lonely divorcee and a self- proclaimed “friend,” according to the title on her “card.” Upon their initial introduction, both characters omit the undesirable details of their respective pasts, but the following day, when Ruth discovers Max asleep on the same bench where she left him the night before, compassion overpowers reason and she invites him to stay on her couch “temporarily.”

The second act features a refreshing change of scenery and, as more truth about these new-found friends is revealed, the play curves towards the real, underlying questions about trust, companionship, and what can you hope to find after you outlive your life plan?

During the curtain call, when these two, beloved faces greet their audience with marvelous, heart-warming smiles, you’ll realize that the beautiful idea of the play and the lasting charm of its characters are enough to at least make you feel bad about admitting that the play itself falls short of outstanding. It’s just a little too cheesy and a little too canned to take seriously. Nevertheless, if you’re in need of something new to bring you a smile, this delightful cast will make it worth your while.

Friends, a Donis Production and directed by Jerry Donis, opens Thursday, October 14th at Theatre 3, 311 West 43rd Street 3rd Floor.

 Critics Review Bye Bye Birdie

BROADWAY MAGAZINE – Last night the new revival of Bye Bye Birdie opened at the Henry Miller Theatre. Named for a turn of the (last) century actor and producer, Henry Miller is also the name of a provocative American novelist. To paraphrase the opening line from the novelist Henry Miller’s Tropic of Cancer in consideration of the opening night reviews of the show–This is not a musical revival. Miller fans may continue the analogy with caution at their own discretion.A close reading of 10 opening night reviews of Bye Bye Birdie yields some interesting insights. With the exception of one critic who was quite fond of the production, the other 90% of opening night critics surveyed had many negative things to say about the show. While most critics acknowledged that reviving this musical from a plot and story standpoint is a challenge, they also seemed willing to embrace the silliness of the musical’s plot. However, citing a range of reasons, the majority of opening night critics did not enjoy the production. It is the most negatively reviewed show to date this season.Three Key Take Aways From Broadway Reviews of Bye Bye Birdie

1. Difficulty Singing: Numerous critics noted that many of performers in this revival of the musical Bye Bye Birdie had problems singing. Included in this category was star John Stamos,and Bill Irwin, who one critic suggested should never be encouraged to sing in public again.
2. Colorful: The sets and costumes in this production were extremely colorful. While this did not find favor with all critics, many did express appreciation with the design elements though they were critical of other aspects of the production.
3. Flawed Casting: The concept of “miscasting” was raised in multiple reviews and several instances were cited. While not all critics were in agreement on this point, the majority of critics took issue with multiple casting choices. However, many critics praised the casting of real teens to play teens in the production.

Should You See Bye Bye Birdie On Broadway?Yes, if you like old-fashioned musicals, odd performances, poor singing, moving sidewalks, possible set breakdowns, John Stamos, Gina Gershon, Jayne Houdyshell, Nolan Gerard Funk, Put On A Happy Face, bright colors, screaming teens, are John Simon, revivals, new Broadway theatres, butt-themed dances, over the top comic interpretations, and negatively reviewed productions.

Opening Night Critics Reviews of Bye Bye Birdie

Under director-choreographer Robert Longbottom, this “Birdie” has been completely drained of fun and energy. –Elisabeth Vincentilli, New York Post

The symptoms in this case include tin ear, loss of comic timing, uncontrollable jitters and a prickly disorientation that screams, “Where am I?” and “What am I doing?” Theatergoers may feel an empathetic urge to rush home and bury their heads in their pillows. –Ben Brantley, New York Times

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 Revival Of Broadway Classic Meets Critics

BROADWAY MAGAZINE – Last night, the new Broadway revival of The Royal Family officially opened at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Today, the Broadway Opening Night critics have published their reviews of the production from the Manhattan Theatre Club. A close reading of 10 opening night reviews offers compelling insight into this 1927 comedy. While critics are at odds about the merits of the play and production, there is overwhelming acclaim for stars Jan Maxwell and Rosemary Harris. A majority of the critics applauded the direction and comic pacing of Doug Hughes’ staging, though there were notable detractors.

While one critic noted that the three-act comedy felt long, several critics noted that by the middle of the production a transformation that occurs which makes The Royal Family more successful than the traditional Broadway revival. With an extension for The Royal Family already announced before opening night, and a majority of positive reviews, it is likely that The Royal Family will have a successful Broadway run.

Three Key Take Aways from Opening Night Reviews of The Royal Family

1. Virtuoso Actresses: Though critics were divided on the effectiveness of the ensemble as a whole, there was unswerving enthusiasm for the work of Jan Maxwell and Rosemary Harris, who play mother and daughter. As one critic noted, in The Royal Family the women “wear the pants.” The work of both Maxwell and Harris garnered fervent admiration from Opening Night Critics.
2. Old Chestnut?: Using the definition of an “old chestnut” as a play that has been repeated so often that it is not funny any more, it is interesting that several opening night critics note that The Royal Family is firmly rooted in its 1927 setting. From its traditional three-act structure to its large cast, opulent sets, and focus on an era when Broadway stars “mattered in a way they no longer do,” as John Simon wrote, the word “dated” was used by various reviewers in reference to the play. More than one critic expressed the thought that this play was not George Kaufman’s strongest work.
   
3. Exceptional Production Values: The physical production of The Royal Family inspired awe and admiration from the opening night critics. The set by John Lee Beatty, Catherine Zuber’s costumes, and the lighting by Kenneth Posner all were singled out for recognition by a significant number of critics.

Should You See The Royal Family On Broadway?

Yes, if you like strong female performances, theatre-based comedies, lush sets, The Barrymore family, theatre, three-act plays, farce, Rosemary Harris, elegant costumes, Tony Roberts, lifestyles of the rich and famous, OK! Magazine in 1927, Jan Maxwell, curtains, temper tantrums, the twenties, on stage-fights, back-stage dramas, romance, mothers and daughters, John Barrymore, any theatrical dynasty, classic American comedies, George Kaufman, Edna Ferber, Doug Hughes, Manhattan Theatre Club, and Actors.

Opening Night Reviews For The Royal Family

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Hamlet Takes Broadway Critics By Storm

BROADWAY MAGAZINE- Last night, William Shakespeare’s Hamlet
returned to Broadway with Jude Law starring in a production that earned strong reviews in London at the Donmar Warehouse. Today, Broadway critics have published their reviews. Actually one paper even jumped the embargo and published a review before the curtain went up (tsk,tsk Newsday, you are now at the back of the line).

A close reading of 16 opening night reviews of Hamlet starring Jude Law produces some interesting results. The majority of critics are positive about the performance by Jude Law, consistently noting his physicality in the role, vocal strength, and energetic interpretation of the part. Reviewers are mixed on the supporting cast, with both enthusiastic supporters and detractors among the critics. There is agreement that this production will appeal to those who are not regular fans of Shakespeare, and that Michael Grandage’s direction is free from extreme interpretation. The word “chic” was used more than once to describe the setting, costumes and lights.

Three Key Take Aways from Opening Night Reviews of Hamlet

1. Energetic: Most critics commented on Jude Laws vigorous physicality in portraying Hamlet. This Hamlet has energy and intensity. While some critics felt the physicality was too much gesturing, others welcomed the aggressive portrayal.
   
2. Pure Shakespeare: Universally, it was recognized that his production does not cloud Shakespeare’s play with concepts. Also, numerous critics noted how accessible the story of Hamlet is in this production.
   
3. Accessible: You don’t need to be a Shakespeare scholar to enjoy this production. There is also unanimity that there is a vocal clarity to this production, which brings accessibility to Shakespeare’s greatest play. You will understand the play, even if you’ve never seen a Shakespeare production before.
   

Should You See Hamlet With Jude Law On Broadway?

Yes, particularly if you like Jude Law, celebrities, Danish princes, gesturing, chic costumes, Shakespeare, tragedy, comedy, drama, Donmar Warehouse, madness, snow, ape-ing, gymnastics, drowning, ghosts, sword fights, action, plays-within-plays, classics, yoga, and overwhelmingly enthusiastic reviews.

Watch clips of Hamlet and an interview with Jude Law right here on Broadway.tv. Also check out the current Broadway Magazine with Jude Law on the cover.

Critic’s Opening Night Reviews of Broadway’s Hamlet With Jude Law

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 Critics Weigh In On New Play

BROADWAY MAGAZINE – Last night, Carrie Fisher opened her one-woman show Wishful Drinking on Broadway at Studio 54. Today, a close reading of reviews from 10 Broadway opening night critics offers some interesting insight and consensus on the production.

Telling stories from her own life, Carrie Fisher’s show display her wit and resilience in the face of a range of challenges and a galaxy of unusual experiences. Addiction, death, celebrity, depression, Star Wars and more are topics covered by Ms. Fisher who rose to fame as Princess Leia in Star Wars. While not all Broadway critics were enthusiastic about the production, a majority found Wishful Drinking to be entertaining and engaging. Some critics complained that the production was a bit long, and others felt this was material she covered before in her books.

Three Key Take Aways From Wishful Drinking Opening Night Reviews

1. Funny – Carrie Fisher’s gift for turning a phrase as a writer and delivering it as a performer was highlighted in many reviews. Even dissenting critics acknowledged that the show will make you laugh, and is entertaining. She is a gifted storyteller.
2. Candid—Carrie Fisher’s candor in Wishful Drinking is used for comic effect, though at times her raw honesty can be challenging too.
3. Carrie Fisher—This show is about Carrie Fisher. Her life and her gifts as a performer are front and center. Some critics felt that the area of celebrity confessional was old territory, a majority of critics imply that Fisher brings something fresh to the one-person show format

Should you see Wishful Drinking On Broadway?

Yes, if you like confessionals, Carrie Fisher, Star Wars, celebrity, gossip, depression, laughter, Paul Simon, one-person shows, shocking details, TMZ, addiction, weight gain, strong writing, Debbie Reynolds, Elizabeth Taylor, Eddie Fisher, survival, wit, candor, and pez dispensers.

Opening Night Reviews For Wishful Thinking

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 Broadway Critics On Superior Donuts

BROADWAY MAGAZINE – Last night at the Music Box Theatre, Broadway welcomed a new production from celebrated playwright Tracy Letts called Superior Donuts. Today, the opening night critics have voiced their thoughts about the show. A close reading of 14 opening night reviews of the production provides unique insight.

Universally, the reviews tended to focus on this play as being unique in tone for playwright Tracy Letts. With a majority of the reviewers drawing comparisons to television sit-coms, the critics agree (for the most part) that there is nothing wrong with a solid, entertaining play.

Interestingly enough, earlier this week many Broadway critics seemed eager to chide/dismiss Chicago playwright Keith Huff’s writing in A Steady Rain for invoking familiar Law & Order tropes, but based on critics’ reviews it is permissible to summon popular cultural clichés if you are Tracy Letts. Our comprehensive Broadway Opening Night Review Matrix for Superior Donuts
below.

Three Key Take Aways from the Opening Night Reviews of Superior Donuts:

1. Strong Performances: Enthusiastically solid praise from all critics for the actors in Superior Donuts. This is particularly true for the work of Jon Michael Hill, who one critic described as giving a “breakout star-making Broadway debut.” There was equally strong praise for Michael McKean, who stars as the proprietor of the donut shop. It is likely both actors will be in contention for awards in the Spring. The entire ensemble earned praise for their work from most critics.
   
2. Entertaining: A majority of Broadway reviewers went out of their way to note that the play is quite funny, and wholly entertaining. While the script may echo television situation comedies with one-liners and clichéd storylines, it does a successful job of capturing the idiom.
   
3. Hopeful Tone: Consistently, critics observed that the dominant motif in Superior Donuts is Hopefulness. While it may be served up in a familiar form, critics seemed fascinated by finding this particular tone in a play by Tracy Letts, given his previous plays.
   

Should You See Superior Donuts On Broadway?
Yes. Particularly if you like situation comedies, Chicago, strong performances, stage fights, hippies, aspiring novelists, comfort food, hopefulness, laughter, jokes, monologues, clichés, Spinal Tap, melodrama, Tracy Letts, Steppenwolf, and/or donuts. Sample of critics’ reviews and links below.
Click here to get the current issue of Broadway Magazine. Photo by Robert J. Saferstein.

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BROADWAY MAGAZINE – Last night, A Steady Rain starring Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig opening at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. Now the Broadway opening night critics have weighed in with their reviews. A careful reading of 16 reviews of the production yields some interesting results. While all critics are in agreement that the play is a star vehicle; and that the stars Hugh Jackman and Daniel Craig are solid and some would say exceptional in their roles, there is also significant praise for director John Crowley and set designer Scott Pask. While critics were positive about both stars’ performances, Daniel Craig seemed to have sparked the most surprise with the success of his performance.

The script by Keith Huff created the most interesting responses from critics. Though several critics dismissed the script as a confluence of multiple sensational crimes and dramatic events packed into the 90 minute production and likened it to “Law & Order,” others found in Huff’s script something richer than a linear cop drama with its use of metaphor and abundance of ghastly detail co-existing with ordinary life. In addition, numerous critics had praise the veracity of Huff in capturing the language of Chicago cops. Those who found in Huff’s drama something more than a formula offer a compelling perspective on the play that is both illuminated because of its star casting, but simultaneously blinded from appreciation by that strong star cast. Of course the real question from all of these positive notices is whether or not stars, director, set and writer will be remembered at Tony Time. See last year’s The Seagull or Equus. Below is our review matrix for A Steady Rain.

Should you see A STEADY RAIN on Broadway?
Yes, especially if you like Daniel Craig, Hugh Jackman, Chicago police officers, drama, humor, monologues, crime stories, new plays, popular shows, and strong productions with positive reviews for the stars involved you should certainly see A Steady Rain. Click here for show video.

“In A Steady Rain, the setting may be this-decade Chicago (the play had a successful pre-Broadway run there with a different cast), but the urban scenery – masterfully invoked by designer Scott Pask, whose tenement backdrops conjure cathedrals of decay – could be 1970s New York.” – Brendan Lemon, Financial Times

“If Jackman cosies up to the audience like the Oscar night host that he was in March, Craig submerges himself fully in the part of the alcoholic Joey, Denny’s best buddy and partner on a pretty fearsome beat.” Matt Wolf, The Times of London

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