Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark

I saw the first preview of Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark last night. I know most reviews aren't made until opening night, but a lot of people are trashing it already.

I started in the minority, since I've been excited for this musical since it was announced. Again I'm in the minority, because I loved it.

It's not flawless. It's far from it. The finale needs to be changed. Some of the lyrics are terrible. The score is, for the most part, quite forgettable. There are songs about "Bouncing Off The Walls" and "High Heels," which are kind of ridiculous, but then there are special moments I have never felt from any other piece of Theatre. I left the Theatre with so many questions, but I loved that. I was able to relate to wanting to "rising above myself" and growing up. I loved how Spider-Man was almost controlled by his nightmare, since I'm still young enough for my dreams to have such an impact on me. There were times in the show I was so drawn in and connected, and I was especially so during the longest stop they took. There were times I actually feared for my life, not because I thought the actors would land on me, but because I felt like I was in the city under attack. I'm not big on spectacles, but the flying blew me away.

I think Spider-Man is perfect for kids and teenagers. Nothing extremely inappropriate stands out in my mind. I was captivated and blown away, even though I tend to shy away from "spectacle" musicals. Spider-Man isn't only good for younger audiences. I'm pretty sure anyone can enjoy it if they go in with an open mind, especially in previews. There are some really great, interesting, new things going on in the musical. The choreography is very well thought out and spectacular. The story gets a few messages across; I have a feeling I could get a completely different experience next time I go. The actors are marvelous. Jennifer Damiano and Patrick Page absolutely blew me away.

I say, absolutely go see Spider-Man. No matter what, it will not be like any other piece of theatre you've ever experienced. Go with an open mind, I bet you'll find something to enjoy. I cannot wait until I can go back again and hopefully see the finished product.